Photonics Lab Operator (Emeryville)

Lab OperatornEye.ai, a well-funded optical switch startup, is poised to revolutionize the future of data centers. nEye's MEMS-based silicon photonics optical circuit switches (OCS) eliminate critical bottlenecks in AI processing by enabling direct optical connections among thousands of GPUs and memory units. The company's OCS is an ultra-low power consumption, high radix, compact chip-scale design, offering hyperscale data centers enhanced performance, efficiency, and scalability.Job OverviewWe are looking for a highly skilled lab operator with experience in precision optical, photonics, or MEMS environments: someone who can execute wafer-level testing with rigor while also applying judgment to the data they observe.You will be responsible for running wafer-level tests and operating advanced metrology systems, but just as importantly, you will serve as a first line of defense for data quality, for example identifying anomalies, spotting inconsistencies, and flagging issues to engineering.This role is ideal for someone who has spent years working hands-on with high-end optical systems or metrology tools, understands the scale and precision involved, and knows when something "doesn't look right."Key ResponsibilitiesOperate and support wafer-level test setups for silicon photonics and MEMS-based devicesLoad wafers, execute test sequences, and ensure consistent, high-quality test executionWork with high-precision optical and metrology equipment to collect measurement dataPerform optical alignment and fiber-based test setups as neededMonitor test outputs and identify anomalies, drift, or unexpected behavior in dataProactively flag irregularities to engineers, providing clear observations and contextTroubleshoot test setups and support root cause analysis of failuresMaintain and calibrate lab equipment to ensure accuracy and repeatabilityAccurately document test procedures, results, and observationsSupport engineers in debugging, validation, and test optimization effortsContribute to improving lab workflows, test processes, and overall data qualityRequired QualificationsAssociate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)Equivalent hands-on industry experience is highly valued; a formal degree is not required for this roleStrong hands-on experience with single mode fiber opticsExperience working in precision optical, photonics, or MEMS environmentsExperience operating high-end metrology or measurement equipmentBackground in wafer-level testing, semiconductor environments, or advanced hardware labsProven ability to execute structured test procedures with consistency and accuracyExperience identifying test anomalies, system issues, or data inconsistenciesFamiliarity with lab instrumentation (e.g., optical setups, oscilloscopes, power meters, etc.)Comfortable working in cleanroom or controlled lab environmentsStrong attention to detail and ability to follow complex proceduresPreferred SkillsExperience with silicon photonics or optical device testingExperience working with laser systems, optical alignment, or fiber couplingFamiliarity with wafer probing, optical characterization, or MEMS devicesExperience supporting R&D or early-stage product development environments$45 - $55 an hour Starting salary and title will depend on, and be commensurate with, relevant industry experience, skills, training, education, market demands, and the ultimate job duties and requirements.nEye.ai is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.