R&D Laser Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

R&D Laser Design Engineer | Full-Time | Direct Hire | Houston

What Matters Most :

• Direct hire opportunity with a leading optoelectronics manufacturer serving high-speed optical communications markets
• High-impact R&D role focused on next-generation semiconductor laser development
• Primary focus on high-power lasers and high-speed EML devices
• Fast-paced new product development environment (2–3 month design-to-validation cycles)
• Close collaboration with epitaxy and fabrication teams from concept through validation
• Competitive base salary up to $200K with relocation support available

Job Description :

A global supplier of optical communication components is seeking an R&D Laser Design Engineer to support the development of advanced semiconductor laser products. This position is focused on device structure design and modeling for high-power and high-speed electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs). The role is centered on epitaxial structure design and optical waveguide development rather than physical layout design. Engineers in this group are responsible for modeling device behavior, validating results through experimental data, and iterating designs to meet aggressive performance and production targets. This is a highly technical, collaborative role within a dynamic R&D team driving new product innovation under tight development schedules.

Responsibilities :

• Design and optimize epitaxial layer structures and optical waveguides for high-power and high-speed semiconductor laser devices

• Perform advanced device modeling and simulations covering optical, electrical, RF, and thermal performance using proprietary tools and Matlab-based platforms

• Collaborate closely with epitaxy and fabrication teams from early-stage concept through process execution and validation

• Analyze experimental characterization data and refine models to improve yield, performance margins, and reliability

• Document technical progress and contribute to design reviews to ensure alignment with performance targets and product timelines

Qualifications and Requirements :

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optoelectronics, or related field; or M.S. with 5+ years of relevant semiconductor laser design experience

• Demonstrated experience designing high-power lasers and/or high-speed EML devices; VCSEL experience is a plus

• Strong proficiency in Matlab for modeling and data analysis; Python experience is advantageous

• Deep understanding of semiconductor laser physics and optoelectronic device theory

• Ability to work in rapid development cycles and meet performance, yield, reliability, and schedule objectives

Preferred / Nice to Have :

• Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes

• Experience working in cross-functional R&D environments

• Exposure to reliability testing and production yield optimization

• Experience working with proprietary or in-house simulation tools

Benefits and Perks :

• Competitive base salary up to $200K depending on experience

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage

• 401(k) with employer contribution

• Generous PTO policy with unused balance payout

• Relocation assistance within the U.S.

• Immigration sponsorship available (must be authorized to work in the U.S.)

Your New Organization :

You will join a technology-driven organization at the forefront of high-speed optical communication components. The Houston-based team operates in a focused, innovation-oriented R&D environment where engineers directly influence product performance, manufacturability, and time-to-market success.

Your Career Partner :

The Reserves Network is a veteran-founded, family-owned talent solutions firm specializing in engineering and technical placements nationwide. We focus on thoughtful alignment between candidates and organizations and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.