Design Engineer

Lead Engineer, InP Laser Development & New Product IntroductionA global leader in advanced photonics and semiconductor technologies is seeking a Lead Engineer, InP Laser Development & New Product Introduction to join its growing R&D organization in Fremont, California.This role will focus on the design and development of high-power Indium Phosphide (InP) semiconductor lasers used in next-generation optical communications and AI-driven data center infrastructure. The successful candidate will take ownership of laser design activities from concept through fabrication, characterization, qualification, and new product introduction while working closely with internal engineering teams, manufacturing partners, customers, and suppliers.This is a highly visible opportunity for an engineer who enjoys hands-on device development, technical leadership, and solving complex challenges at the forefront of optical networking technology.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the design and development of InP-based semiconductor lasers for high-speed data communication applicationsOwn critical aspects of laser development including device architecture, grating design, epitaxy, coatings, and performance optimizationUtilize simulation tools to identify key design parameters and establish performance and yield targetsDevelop and execute design of experiments (DOE) to accelerate device development and process optimizationSupport wafer fabrication launches and coordinate activities across development and manufacturing teamsDesign and implement electrical and optical characterization methodologies to evaluate device performanceAnalyze fabrication and performance data using statistical methods and engineering toolsDrive technical coordination across epitaxy, wafer fabrication, assembly, packaging, and test organizationsManage project schedules, milestones, documentation, and technical deliverablesTranslate customer requirements into product specifications and development objectivesInterface directly with customers, suppliers, and external partners on both technical and business-related mattersRequired QualificationsM.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optoelectronics, or a related disciplinePh.D. preferred3–5+ years of industry experience in semiconductor lasers, photonics, optoelectronics, or related technologiesStrong understanding of semiconductor physics, laser physics, and device operating principlesExperience with semiconductor device characterization including electrical and optical measurementsWorking knowledge of semiconductor fabrication processes with hands-on development experience preferredFamiliarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologiesStrong analytical and statistical data analysis skillsExcellent project management, organization, and technical documentation capabilitiesStrong communication and collaboration skills within cross-functional engineering environmentsPreferred QualificationsDirect experience developing InP-based semiconductor laser productsExperience with device simulation and modeling toolsBackground supporting new product introduction and product commercializationExperience working with optical communications, datacom, networking, or AI infrastructure technologiesExposure to epitaxy, wafer fabrication, assembly, packaging, and semiconductor test processesExperience interacting directly with customers and external technology partnersIdeal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with the ability to lead complex development programs and drive results across multiple engineering disciplines.This person enjoys working hands-on with advanced semiconductor devices while also managing projects, coordinating stakeholders, and influencing technical direction. They thrive in fast-paced development environments and are motivated by seeing innovative technologies move from concept into production.Candidates from photonics, optical communications, semiconductor laser, or advanced optoelectronics backgrounds will be particularly well aligned.Why This OpportunityOpportunity to develop industry-leading InP laser technologies that power global communications networksDirect impact on next-generation AI infrastructure, hyperscale data centers, and optical networking platformsWork on products that have enabled more than 100 million deployed optical devices worldwideJoin a highly experienced and collaborative semiconductor R&D teamSignificant technical ownership and visibility across the product development lifecycleExposure to customers, suppliers, and strategic technology initiativesStrong career growth opportunities within a global technology leaderCompetitive compensation, bonus opportunity, and comprehensive benefits package