Photonics Engineer 2 Components

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Photonics Engineer 2 Components focused on the design, development, and qualification of advanced photonic components used in high-performance optical systems. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our manufacturing foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a highly self-directed engineer who thrives in an ambiguous, fast-moving environment.This role requires a strong background in optics, photonics packaging, and precision opto-mechanical integration. The engineer will work closely with manufacturing, reliability, and supply chain teams to transition designs from prototype through high-volume production.The position reports to the Director of Photonics Components. Key Responsibilities include:Component Design & DevelopmentDesign and develop photonic components including but not limited to:Optical isolatorsOptical switchesHigh-power fiber optic connectorsPackaged acousto-optic modulatorsPerform optical design and modeling of free-space and fiber-coupled optical systemsDevelop opto-mechanical architectures for stable and repeatable optical alignmentSelect and integrate key optical elements including lenses, crystals, fibers, polarizers, and coatingsConduct optical tolerance analysis and performance modelingOptical Packaging & IntegrationDesign precision photonic packaging solutions including:Fiber coupling assembliesOptical benches and mountsThermal management structuresImplement alignment strategies such as active alignment, passive alignment, welding, soldering, and adhesive bondingDevelop automated or semi-automated assembly processesTesting & CharacterizationBuild and characterize optical test setups for component validationMeasure key optical parameters including:Insertion lossIsolationReturn lossPower handling capabilitySwitching speedThermal stabilityPerform environmental testing and analyze performance over temperature, vibration, and lifetime conditionsReliability & Failure AnalysisSupport component reliability qualification and accelerated life testingInvestigate optical performance degradation and failure modesConduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actionsContribute to reliability models for materials, adhesives, fibers, and optical assembliesCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with:Mechanical engineeringManufacturing engineeringSupply chainQuality and reliability teamsSupport design transfer into manufacturing and production rampInterface with external suppliers for custom optical components and materialsRequirementsThis 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, MS, or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field2-5+ years of experience developing photonic or optical hardwareExperience designing or integrating optical components and assembliesHands-on laboratory experience with optical alignment and characterizationFamiliarity with optical modeling tools such as Zemax, Code V, or equivalentExperience with precision opto-mechanical design and packagingStartup Mindset:Comfortable operating in an evolving environment with changing prioritiesMotivated by building new capabilities and infrastructure from the ground upWilling to take ownership across multiple technical domainsHands-on and resourceful, with a strong bias toward executionBenefitsThe expected annual salary range for this position is $85,000-$125,000. 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.