Senior Packaging Engineer, Silicon Photonics

Senior Packaging Engineer, Silicon Photonics / Optical SystemsThrively is partnering with a venture-backed deep-tech company developing next-generation optical interconnect and switching technologies for AI and high-performance computing systems is seeking a Senior Packaging Engineer to help design and productize complex photonic assemblies and optical hardware systems.This is a highly hands-on, detailed engineering role focused on the design, integration, and manufacturability of precision optical packaging systems, particularly fiber-array-to-chip assemblies, photonic modules, and high-density optical interconnects.The ideal candidate has direct experience designing and shipping optical or photonic hardware products involving:fiber arraysoptical alignmentphotonic packagingoptical assembliesoptical transceiverswaveguide-based systemsor dense electro-optical modulesThis is NOT a traditional semiconductor packaging process role. We are specifically seeking engineers with strong experience in precision optical hardware and photonic package design.What You’ll Work OnDesign and develop complex photonic and electro-optical packaging systems for advanced optical interconnect productsOwn detailed package design activities including:*optical/mechanical interfaces*fiber attach strategies*adhesive and bonding schemes*tolerance stack analysis*thermal/mechanical considerations*manufacturable assembly approachesDevelop high-density fiber-array and photonic assembly solutionsDrive package integration from prototype through manufacturing transferWork cross-functionally across photonics, MEMS, mechanical, electrical, reliability, and manufacturing teamsSupport fixture/tooling concepts, assembly methods, and DFM optimizationParticipate in package design reviews, root-cause investigations, and reliability/performance analysisInterface with external vendors, manufacturing partners, and assembly suppliers as neededIdeal BackgroundWe are especially interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following:Silicon photonics packagingOptical transceiversTelecom/coherent opticsOptical switching systemsFiber-array packagingPlanar waveguide or AWG/PLC-based systemsAerospace or defense optical systemsPrecision optical assembly and alignmentMEMS + photonics packagingHigh-reliability optical hardware systemsRequired Experience7+ years of experience in optical, photonic, or optoelectronic packaging engineeringDemonstrated experience owning detailed package designs that reached production or field deploymentHands-on experience with optical alignment, fiber attach, photonic assemblies, or electro-optical integrationStrong understanding of manufacturable precision assemblies and tolerance-sensitive optical systemsExperience with materials, adhesives, thermal/mechanical interactions, and reliability considerations in optical hardwareExperience supporting prototype builds, qualification, and manufacturing ramp activitiesStrong engineering fundamentals and analytical problem-solving capabilitiesPreferred ExperienceExperience with high fiber-count optical systems or fiber-array assembliesExperience with active/passive optical alignment systemsFamiliarity with Telcordia or other reliability qualification environmentsExperience with MEMS-integrated optical systemsExperience working in startup or fast-paced product development environmentsAdditional NotesWe are looking for engineers who enjoy solving real-world hardware problems and bringing sophisticated optical systems from concept into manufacturable products. Candidates with strong detailed engineering instincts, productization experience, and a history of shipping reliable hardware systems will be especially compelling.