Senior Photonics Process Development Engineer - Fiber Process Focus

Join our fast-paced and collaborative team as a Senior Photonics Process Development Engineer with a Focus on Optical Fiber Processes. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for developing, optimizing, and scaling critical fiber handling and integration processes that directly impact product performance, reliability, and manufacturability. You will work closely with device, optical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers to translate photonic designs into robust, repeatable assemblies. This role is ideal for someone with strong practical experience in fiber preparation and integration who enjoys working at the intersection of R&D and manufacturing.Key Responsibilities:Lead development and execution of fiber-centric processes, including: Precision fiber cleaving, stripping, and preparation (SM, PM, specialty fibers)Fusion splicing (including low-loss and polarization-maintaining alignment)Fiber endcapping and handling for high-poser or sensitive applicationsFiber cleaning, preparation, and contamination control practicesInspection and analysis of fiber end-faces and splice qualitySupport photonic assembly and integration:Fiber-to-device coupling and alignment (active and passive)Integration of fibers into packages (TO, butterfly, micro-optic assemblies)Optics attach (lenses, isolators, fiber arrays)Broader packaging and assembly responsibilities:Die attach (epoxy, eutectic, solder)Wire bonding (Au, Al; ball and wedge)Vacuum reflow soldering (AuSn, SAC, indium)Process development & improvement:Design and execute DOE to improve optical performance, yield, and repeatabilityCreate and document process flows, work instructions, and travelersTroubleshoot issues related to optical loss, fiber damage, and process variabilitySupport transition of processes from development into pilot and early-stage productionSupport tooling, fixturing, and automation strategies for fiber handlingCollaboration and execution:Work with equipment vendors on fiber processing tool (splicers, cleavers, inspection systems)Partner with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure process stability and repeatabilitySupport reliability testing and failure analysis effortsTrain technicians and engineers on proper fiber handling and processing techniquesRequirementsThis position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)Experience:BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldTypically 5+ years of relevant experience in photonics or optoelectronic process development3+ years with demonstrated hands-on expertise with fiber processes in a production or R&D environmentHands-on experience with fiber handling and processing in a lab or manufacturing environmentCore Skills:Fiber cleaving, stripping, and preparation techniques across a range of fiber typesFusion splicing (including PM fiber alignment and loss optimization)Fiber endcapping and high-power handling considerationsFiber inspection methods (microscopy, interferometry, or equivalent) Strong understanding of contamination control and cleaning methodsExperience with fiber alignment and optical coupling Familiarity with die attach, soldering, or wire bonding processes Strong understanding of process control, yield improvement, and manufacturabilityAbility to work effectively in lab and cleanroom environmentsStrong documentation and communication skillsPreferred Skills:Experience with high-power fiber or laser systemsFamiliarity with hermetic packaging (butterfly / TO-can / micro-optic packages)Experience with active alignment systemsExposure to reliability testing (thermal cycling, HTOL, damp heat)Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) or basic manufacturing metricsExperience supporting early-stage or low-volume productionStartup Mindset:Hands-on, detail-oriented, and execution-focusedComfortable working in a fast-paced evolving environmentProactive in identifying problems and driving solutionsWilling to take ownership of processes and continuously improve themBenefitsThe expected annual salary range for this position is $125,000-$175,000. As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which includes: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching 20 paid time off (PTO) days per year 13 paid company holidays 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) Monarch Quantum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran status or any other characteristics protected under applicable federal, state and local laws.