COL-2026-045 | Senior Photonics Engineer

Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, United States | Posted on 10/07/2026

Colwyn Group is a staffing and recruiting firm headquartered in Austin, Texas, working across healthcare, technology, and executive search. We place candidates with employers across the US.An American Staffing Association member firm.

Job Description

Senior Photonics EngineerLocation: Los Angeles Metropolitan AreaAbout the RoleWe are seeking a Senior Photonics Engineer to lead the characterization and performance validation of integrated photonic circuit products, from prototypes to product-level validation.This role is ideal for a technically rigorous experimentalist with a solid understanding of nonlinear optics who thrives on designing, executing, and automating complex optical and electro-optic tests, and who takes pride in building, debugging, and optimizing test systems to deliver robust, repeatable performance.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn and continuously improve chip-level and package-level optical and electro-optical testing, data acquisition, and automation workflows for integrated photonic products.Automate measurements and streamline data analysis pipelines to enable rapid prototyping and benchmarking.Create and maintain detailed test plans, procedures, and documentation to evaluate product performance from prototype to validation.Characterize photonic components and systems, analyze test data, and prepare clear test reports for internal teams and external customers.Set up and operate a wide range of optical and electronic lab equipment (e.g., tunable lasers, power meters, OSAs, ESAs, autocorrelators, and high-speed oscilloscopes).Develop test software for measurement execution, instrument control, data analysis, and parameter extraction using Python and/or LabVIEW.Improve the mechanical and optical robustness of test setups and packaged devices.Use CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) to design optomechanical assemblies for test setups and prototype packages.Perform basic PCB design and development to support test setups and measurement systems.Work with vendors to specify, evaluate, and procure test equipment.Stay current with the latest advances in Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) testing.RequirementsPhD degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, Photonics, or a related field, with demonstrated hands-on experience in experimental photonics.Hands-on experience and solid understanding of nonlinear optics.Hands-on experience in photonic integrated circuit testing and packaging.Proficiency in Python and/or LabVIEW for lab automation, instrument control, and data processing.Proficiency in operating optical and electronic test equipment (lasers, OSAs, lock-in amplifiers, ESAs, autocorrelators, high-speed oscilloscopes).Experience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) and basic PCB design tools.Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for collaborating in a fast-paced environment.Preferred Experience & Skills2+ years of experience in startup or early-stage R&D environments with rapid iteration cycles.Experience in experimental nonlinear optics and ultrafast laser systems.Expertise in statistical data analysis, design of experiments (DoE), gauge repeatability, curve fitting, statistical process control, and machine learning methods.