Principal Optical Engineer - Light Sources (Silicon Photonics)

TL;DR

Principal Optical Engineer (Silicon Photonics): Driving end-to-end development of external light source technology for data center interconnects with an accent on laser physics, DFB laser diodes, and reliability qualification. Focus on designing production-ready optical components, managing vendor engagements, and integrating external components into Silicon Photonics products.

Location: Onsite in Santa Clara, CA; Irvine, CA; or San Diego, CA

Salary: $158,600 - $237,600 per annum

Company

hirify.global provides semiconductor solutions that serve as essential building blocks for data infrastructure across enterprise, cloud, and AI architectures.

What you will do

• Lead the end-to-end development of external light source technology from initial concept to volume manufacturing.
• Manage the full life-cycle of light sources, including design selection, procurement, characterization, and reliability qualification.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for vendors to ensure milestone completion and resolve performance or supply issues.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, packaging, firmware, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.
• Contribute to the development of other external optical components and fiber sub-assemblies.

Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 5-15 years of professional experience (depending on degree level).
• Strong expertise in semiconductor DFB laser diodes and a deep grasp of laser physics fundamentals.
• Experience with laser assembly and packaging techniques specifically for data-center environments.
• Proven track record of vendor engagement for component procurement and running reliability assessment programs.
• Experience designing fiber-optic and integrated-optics components and assemblies.
• Must be eligible to access export-controlled information under U.S. export control laws (EAR).

Nice to have

• Familiarity with Silicon Photonics systems.
• Experience with free-space design software such as Zemax or Code-V.
• Proficiency in analyzing large datasets using JMP, DataConductor, or similar tools.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive financial well-being programs and an employee stock purchase plan with a 2-year look back.
• Robust mental and physical health resources.
• Family support programs to assist with work-life balance.
• Recognition and service awards for milestones and contributions.