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 & Development Design and develop photonic components including but not limited to: Optical isolators Optical switches High-power fiber optic connectors Packaged acousto-optic modulators Perform optical design and modeling of free-space and fiber-coupled optical systems. Develop opto-mechanical architectures for stable and repeatable optical alignment. Select and integrate key optical elements including lenses, crystals, fibers, polarizers, and coatings. Conduct optical tolerance analysis and performance modeling. Optical Packaging & Integration Design precision photonic packaging solutions including: Fiber coupling assemblies Optical benches and mounts Thermal management structures Implement alignment strategies such as active alignment, passive alignment, welding, soldering, and adhesive bonding. Develop automated or semi-automated assembly processes. Testing & Characterization Build and characterize optical test setups for component validation. Measure key optical parameters including: Insertion loss Isolation Return loss Power handling capability Switching speed Thermal stability Perform environmental testing and analyze performance over temperature, vibration, and lifetime conditions. Reliability & Failure Analysis Support component reliability qualification and accelerated life testing. Investigate optical performance degradation and failure modes. Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions. Contribute to reliability models for materials, adhesives, fibers, and optical assemblies. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with: Mechanical engineering Manufacturing engineering Supply chain Quality and reliability teams Support design transfer into manufacturing and production ramp. Interface with external suppliers for custom optical components and materials. Requirements This 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 field. 2–5+ years of experience developing photonic…