Laser Engineer

IC Resources; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

IC Resources is seeking a Laser Tech Lead Engineer to drive development and validation of III-V lasers and amplifiers for advanced photonic sensing systems in a fast-growing tech environment.

The role involves owning R&D characterization, test development, data analysis, and collaboration with OSAT/foundry partners to scale from R&D to manufacturing. A Master’s/PhD and 3–5 years of III-V experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in EE or physics field.
• 3–5 years in III-V laser development or related area.
• Familiarity with silicon photonics and passive optical components.
• Strong data reporting experience for product development.
• Ability to translate system requirements into laser requirements.

Responsibilities

• Own III-V R&D characterization of lasers and amplifiers.
• Develop and expand test coverage for new requirements.
• Troubleshoot test setups and design issues.
• Perform data analysis to ensure components meet system requirements.
• Run simulations in Python or Simulink to support device characterization.
• Support III-V layout and tape-out and participate in design reviews.
• Collaborate with silicon photonics and operations teams for hybrid integration.
• Work with OSAT and foundry partners to drive III-V component development.
• Assist transition of laser components from R&D to high-volume manufacturing.
• Create detailed design documentation and technical specifications.

Skills

Python

C++

MATLAB

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in EE/Applied Physics

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Spectrum analyzers

VNAs

Motorized stages

Job description

I'm working confidentially with a fast-growing technology company seeking a highly technical, detail-oriented Laser Tech Lead Engineer to drive the development and validation of III-V semiconductor lasers and amplifiers.

This role is ideal for someone with strong experience in laser validation for sensing applications. You will own the development and validation of III-V semiconductor laser components and laser systems against system requirements, while also serving as a liaison for validating laser performance within a tightly integrated photonic sensor. You'll also support OSAT and foundry activities for III-V assembly and fabrication.

What you'll do

• Own III-V R&D characterization of lasers, amplifiers, and heterogeneously integrated III-V and Silicon Photonic subsystems, including characterization of phase noise, linewidth, and RIN
• Own III-V R&D test development and expand test coverage as needed for additional requirements
• Troubleshoot and debug test setups and design issues, identifying and resolving technical challenges
• Perform comprehensive characterization and data analysis to ensure III-V components meet system requirements
• Perform simulations in Simulink or Python equivalent environments to support device characterization
• Support III-V layout and tape-out, participate in design reviews, and contribute to design methodology improvements
• Collaborate with silicon photonics and operations teams to hybrid integrate III-V components with SiPh components
• Work closely with OSAT and foundry partners to drive the development of III-V components and resolve technical challenges
• Support the transition of key laser components from R&D into high volume manufacturing
• Create detailed design documentation and technical specifications

What we're looking for

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field
• 3–5 years of industry experience in III-V laser development or a related area
• Demonstrated experience in III-V laser development
• Familiarity with silicon photonics and passive optical components
• Strong familiarity with data reporting required for product development
• Ability to translate system requirements into laser requirements
• Hands on familiarity with lasers, photodetectors, modulators, optical amplifiers, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, VNAs, motorized stages, and lock in amplifiers
• Experience with optical system modeling of complex photonic components
• Experience developing software in Python, C, C++, or MATLAB
• Good understanding of coherent communications, signal integration, integrated optics, and semiconductor physicsStrong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross functional teams

Additional experience of interest

• Deep understanding of high power semiconductor lasers and amplifiers in optical systems
• New product transfer from R&D to operations
• Experience working with external foundry and OSAT partners
• Background in photonic sensing, coherent communications, or LiDAR
• Multi chip packages and hybrid/heterogeneous integration of III-V and silicon photonics
• Experience operating in a fast paced startup environment with high ownership
• High-performance semiconductor lasers and low-linewidth laser systems

The company is developing advanced perception technology for Physical AI operating in complex environments, combining custom silicon, integrated sensors, and software into a unified platform for robotics, mobility, and next generation automation.

This is a hands on opportunity to own critical III-V laser technology within a highly cross functional team working on next generation photonic sensing systems.

Location:

• Competitive salary and equity
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible vacation and time-off policy
• Collaborative, fast paced, and inclusive work environment
• Opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies with a highly cross functional team