Principal Engineer, Laser Module Architect

Location: San Jose (on-site)Ayar Labs is shattering AI data bottlenecks by moving data at the speed of light. As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light instead of electricity to move data faster, further, and with a fraction of the energy needed to fuel the explosive growth of AI models.Backed by industry giants like NVIDIA, Mediatek, AMD and Intel and manufactured in partnership with the world’s leading semiconductor ecosystem, Ayar Labs’ co-packaged optics solution is key to unleashing next-generation AI scale-up architectures.We are seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Laser Module Architect to define and drive next-generation laser technologies and system architectures. This role sits at the intersection of innovation and execution—shaping long-term technology strategy while enabling near-term product success. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in laser physics, system design, and cross-functional leadership to translate emerging technologies into scalable, manufacturable solutions.Key ResponsibilitiesLead system-level architecture development, converting product requirements into robust, scalable laser module solutionsDevelop and own trade-off frameworks across performance, cost, reliability, manufacturability, and power to guide design decisionsPartner closely with Product Management to align specifications with market needs, while anticipating future platform evolutionCollaborate with Laser HW, FW/SW, silicon photonics, packaging, and system teams to deliver cohesive module architecturesGuide modeling, simulation, and early prototyping efforts to de-risk new technologies and validate architectural choicesEstablish design guidelines, reference architectures, and best practices to enable reuse and scalability across multiple product generationsAct as a technical leader and mentor, influencing engineering direction across teams and driving alignment on critical decisionsEngage with external partners, vendors, and research communities to stay at the forefront of laser innovationDefine and drive the long-term laser technology roadmap, identifying and evaluating emerging architectures, components, and integration approachesRequired QualificationsMS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related field10+ years of experience in laser design, optical systems, or photonics-based productsDeep understanding of laser architectures (e.g., DFB, EML, external cavity lasers, integrated lasers) and system-level trade-offsStrong experience in modeling and simulation of laser systems and optical linksProven track record of architecting and delivering complex hardware systems from concept to productionExperience working across hardware, firmware/software, and system teamsPreferred QualificationsPh.D.Experience with silicon photonics integration and co-packaged opticsFamiliarity with high-speed optical communication systems and standardsBackground in reliability, manufacturing, and yield optimization for laser-based productsExperience in semiconductor or optoelectronics startup Salary range: $200,000 - $260,000Note To RecruitersPrincipals only. We are not accepting resumes from recruiters for this position. Remuneration for recruiting activities is only applicable subject to a signed and executed agreement between the parties. Please don’t send candidates to Ayar Labs, and do not contact our managers. Ayar Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is strongly committed to all policies which will afford equal opportunity employment to all qualified persons without regard to age, sex, national origin, race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. It is the policy of Ayar Labs to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. Veterans are more than welcome and encouraged to apply.