Control and Test Engineer

Xscape Photonics Inc; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Xscape Photonics Inc. in Santa Clara, CA is seeking a skilled engineer to develop, implement, and validate control algorithms for integrated photonic circuits.

You will model circuits, analyze behavior, and design robust controllers to ensure optical performance while writing test scripts for automated validation. The ideal candidate has a strong photonics background, hands-on PCB and embedded firmware experience, and a track record of delivering reliable control solutions in lab and production

Qualifications

• Proficiency in control theory and implementation in software and hardware.
• Experience with PID control and signal processing techniques.
• Scripting proficiency in Python for automating lab procedures.
• In-depth knowledge of photonic components (lasers, modulators, detectors).
• Familiarity with optical simulation and modeling tools.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Masters with 5+ years of industry experience or PhD with 2+ years of experience in optical engineering or related field.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement test plans, scripts, methodologies, and protocols for control system validation.
• Develop and implement control algorithms for initialization and stabilization of photonic components.
• Implement photonics system control with multiple control loops across devices, coordinating with engineers.
• Perform validation tests to assess signal quality and system performance under varying conditions.
• Utilize data analysis and visualization to extract insights from measurements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive product development.

Skills

Control theory

PID control

Python scripting

Data analysis

System modeling

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Master’s in Optical Engineering or Electrical Engineering

PhD in Optical/Electrical Engineering (with 2+ years experience)

Tools

Optical spectrum analyzers

Optical power meters

Interferometers

Job description

Job Summary

Xscape Photonics is seeking a talented professional to develop, implement, and validate control algorithms for integrated photonic circuits. This role involves modelling photonic circuits, analyzing their behavior, designing robust control algorithms to ensure optical performance, and validating system functionality.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in photonics with proven experience in developing control algorithms and writing test scripts for integrated systems. Proficiency in working hands‑on with printed circuit boards and embedded firmware is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement comprehensive test plans, scripts, methodologies, and protocols for control system validation.
• Develop and implement control algorithms for initialization and stabilization of photonic components including lasers, ring modulators, MZI based multiplexer/demultiplexers, and ring-based filters.
• Implement photonics system control consisting of multiple control loops across various components, collaborating closely with photonic, hardware and firmware engineers.
• Perform rigorous control system validation tests to assess signal quality and system performance under various environmental stimulus.
• Utilize data analysis and statistical data visualization techniques to extract insights from measurement data.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to provide technical expertise and drive innovation in product development.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in control theory and implementation methodology in software and hardware including PID control theory and signal processing techniques.
• Proficiency in optical test equipment, such as optical spectrum analyzers, optical power meters, and interferometers.
• Proficiency in scripting test procedures using Python, or similar tools, to automate execution on lab equipment and custom hardware.
• In-depth knowledge of photonic components and systems, including lasers, optical amplifiers, modulators, optical filters, and photodetectors.
• Familiarity with optical simulation and modeling tools for system design and analysis.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with minimum of 5 years of industry experience or PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with minimum of 2 years of industry experience.