Optical Characterization Engineer

Mesa Quantum is seeking an Optical Characterization Engineer to support advanced electro‑optical testing and analysis of semiconductor laser devices used in chip‑scale quantum sensors. This role, reporting to the VP of Photonics, is ideal for a hands‑on engineer with a strong background in optics, photonics, and semiconductor lasers who enjoys building and running sophisticated measurement set‑ups, analysing data, and working closely with senior engineers to improve device performance and test capability. The engineer in this role will perform detailed characterisation of quantum‑optimised Vertical‑Cavity Surface‑Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) across a range of operating conditions, including L‑I‑V‑T, spectral behaviour, linewidth, phase/frequency noise, relative intensity noise, modulation response, polarisation, beam quality, and reliability‑related testing. The role also includes support for screening and production‑oriented optical measurements, helping bridge early‑stage R&D characterisation with scalable test methods. Key Responsibilities Perform optical and electro‑optical characterisation of quantum‑optimised VCSELs and related photonic devices using laboratory and automated test set‑ups. Work with senior engineers to develop, refine, and troubleshoot advanced optical characterisation methods and test benches. Analyse measurement data and correlate device performance with design, fabrication, packaging, and operating conditions. Support reliability and environmental testing, including temperature‑dependent testing, ageing studies, and other stress‑based characterisation workflows. Contribute to the development and validation of high‑volume screening & qualification methodologies, with a path toward owning test‑flow development as the role matures. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for VCSEL characterisation, ensuring measurement repeatability, traceability, and alignment with product acceptance criteria. Write scripts and software tools for data acquisition, automation, analysis, and reporting. Help maintain and improve laboratory equipment, test fixtures, and optical benches. Required Qualifications M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics, Materials Science, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, or a Ph.D. in a related field. Solid understanding of semiconductor laser physics, including laser operation, thermal effects, and modulation characteristics. Hands‑on experience with characterisation of semiconductor lasers and optoelectronic components. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as optical spectrum analyzers, RF spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, source‑measure units, temperature controllers, photodetectors, and related equipment. Experience analysing experimental data using Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar tools. Preferred Qualifications Direct experience with VCSELs or other semiconductor laser devices. Experience with advanced laser measurements, including linewidth measurement, noise characterisation, RIN characterisation, and RF measurements. Experience with automated wafer‑level, die‑level, or packaged‑device test environments. Familiarity with quantum sensing and atomic sensing is a plus. Benefits Top tier employee and family health coverage (medical, dental, vision). Unlimited PTO. Paid parental leave. Stock ownership plan. MesaQuantum is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr