Lead Engineer (San Francisco Bay Area)

Engineering Lead – High Speed modulators - Bay Area$200,000 – $275,000 + Bonus + Stock OptionsA leading optical communications company is hiring for an Engineer with a background in designing high-speed optical or Photonic modulators to create advanced III-V modulators for next-generation data centre and AI products.The Role:You will drive end-to-end development from epitaxy and modulator device design through fabrication, production, working closely with external foundries and cross-functional teams.Key Responsibilities:Design III-V epitaxial structures (MQWs, waveguides)Develop high-speed modulators for high-speed applications (EAM/MZM)Design and simulate photonic integrated circuits (PICs)Optimise fabrication processes with foundry partnersLead testing, data analysis, and performance improvementCollaborate with packaging and system teamsRequirements:MSc or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Semiconductor Devices, or related fieldDeep expertise in III-V materials, epitaxy, device physics, and fabricationProven leadership in at least one of the following:100 mW DFB lasers (O-band or C-band), 100 Gb/s electro-absorption modulators (EML/EAM/MZM)Strong simulation and modelling skills (optical + RF + device physics)Hands-on experience with device testing and characterisationExperience working with external foundries and driving process optimisationCompensation:$200,000 – $275,000 base salary – Flexibility for exceptional candidatesBonusStock options/equity participationMedical insurance.Full benefits package