Staff Data Systems Engineer

We're looking for a Senior Data Systems Engineer who bridges the gap between hardware domain expertise and modern data infrastructure. You won't just build pipelines — you'll work directly with foundries, OSATs, test engineers, and validation teams to understand what the data means, define how it should flow, and build the platform that makes AI-driven decisions possible across 13+ active hardware programs.This is not a typical data engineering role. The right person has a background in semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, hardware test/validation, or a related hardware discipline — and a strong pull toward data systems, process optimization, and automation. You understand that the hardest part of a data platform isn't the code; it's knowing which data matters and why.What You'll DoProgram Data Onboarding & Vendor EngagementEngage directly with foundries, OSATs, and internal engineering teams to align on data formats, delivery mechanisms, and quality standards for new programsOwn the data onboarding lifecycle for programs ramping to High Volume Manufacturing (HVM)Identify gaps in data coverage across the pipeline: design, foundry, test/validation, photonics characterization, packaging/assembly, and system-level validationInfluence external and internal teams to adopt scalable, platform-compatible data practices — this is hands-on stakeholder work, not email coordinationData Platform EngineeringDesign, build, and maintain data pipelines that ingest, transform, and deliver hardware data from wafer-level test through system validationBuild and maintain data models in dbt on Snowflake that serve downstream analytics, reporting, and AI/ML workflowsDevelop and operate orchestration workflows (Dagster) for reliable, observable data deliveryImplement data quality checks, monitoring, and alerting to ensure platform reliability across production programsPerformance Metrics & ReportingBuild performance metrics pipelines that translate raw hardware data into actionable insights for engineering and program teamsOwn stakeholder reporting and deliver training for teams onboarding to platform tools (Snowflake, Sigma, custom dashboards)Support AI/ML workflows by ensuring the data foundation is clean, structured, and reliablePlatform Improvement & ToolingContribute to platform infrastructure: CI/CD, RBAC, cost optimization, self-service toolingParticipate in sprint ceremonies, contribute to architectural decisions, and help shape the team's technical roadmapMentor junior team members on both data engineering practices and hardware domain contextWhat You BringRequiredBachelor's Degree in Photonics, Data Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related field8+ years of professional experience in data engineering, process engineering, test engineering, or a related technical role in semiconductor, photonics, or hardware manufacturingProficiency in Python and SQLExperience with Snowflake, dbt, Dagster/Airflow, or similar modern data stack componentsExperience working with data for hardware test, manufacturing, or characterization systemsDemonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with technical teams and external partners (vendors, foundries, or OSATs) to define data requirements and influence practicesStrong analytical thinking — you can look at a dataset and understand what it means in the physical world, not just how to transform itPreferredMaster's or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a related field with 4+ years of experienceBackground in silicon photonics, photonic integrated circuits (PICs), or optical systemsExperience with High Volume Manufacturing (HVM) ramps or new product introduction (NPI) data workflowsFamiliarity with semiconductor test data formats (STDF, WAT, parametric data)Experience building data quality frameworks or monitoring systemsExperience with AI/ML tools applied to manufacturing or engineering dataWe offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role is determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data. Total compensation includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.Salary Range: $196,000 — $217,000 USDBenefitsComprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)Retirement Savings Matching ProgramLife Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)Paid Family LeaveShort Term & Long Term DisabilityTraining & DevelopmentCommuter BenefitsFlexible, hybrid workplace modelEquity grants (applicable to full-time employees)Benefits eligibility may vary depending on your employment status and location. Lightmatter recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.Export ControlCandidates should have capacity to comply with the federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws.J-18808-Ljbffr