Member of Technical Staff - Switch Systems Test Engineer

Coherent Corp.; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Coherent Corp. in Fremont, CA is seeking a senior engineer to lead XDVT test coverage for next‑gen 800G/1.6T/3.2T transceivers. You will standardize, implement, and automate system‑level tests while coordinating global XDVT activities with design teams and partners.

The role requires 9+ years in optical transceiver validation or related fields, strong Python skills, and experience with data center networking. On‑site work and occasional travel are expected.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in optical transceiver validation, system-level debugging, product characterization, and cross-functional technical collaboration.
• Experience working in data center networking, optical communications, or high-speed interconnect technologies is strongly preferred.
• Strong programming skills with Python is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead on the standardization and implementation of XDVT test coverage for all new 800G, 1.6T and future 3.2T optical transceiver products; develop and automate system-level test configurations and coverages.
• Coordinate on global XDVT activities and assist with XDVT failure analysis with design teams across R&D sites.
• Interface with Switch vender, DSP vendor and customers for co-debugging on link stability issues with cross-functional teams.
• Co-develop tuning/optimization algorithms for Switch-based setups (LPO, LRO, XPO) with design teams and partners.
• Support internal teams to bring up switches, NIC cards, traffic generators and other test equipment; obtain timely vendor support.
• Willingness to expand engagement with business partners to support R&D and production activities; occasional travel to other sites.

Skills

Python

Optical testing

Data analysis

Communication & documentation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

B.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field with 9+ years experience

M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field with 7+ years experience

Tools

DCA

OSA

BERT

SonicOS (Switch OS)

CumulusOS

VEOS

MS Excel

Job description

Job Description

• Lead on the standardization and implementation of Switch-based DVT (XDVT) test coverage for all new 800G, 1.6T and future 3.2T optical transceiver products. This includes the continuous development, implementation and improvement of the testing configurations, the test coverages and test automation at system level.
• Coordinate on the global XDVT activities, and assist/advise on the XDVT failure analysis and related corrective actions by working closely with different design teams on all R/D sites.
• Assist module design team/QA team for resolving urgent customer issues found at system level. Capable of directly interfacing with Switch‑vendor, DSP vendor and customers for co‑debugging on the link stability issues as part of joint efforts with all internal cross‑functional teams.
• Co‑develop the tuning/optimization algorithm on Switch-based setup for LPO, LRO and XPO products with design teams, business partners and our customers.
• Support our internal teams to bring up the special switches, NIC cards, traffic generators and other test equipment, and help on getting the timely technical support from our equipment vendors or business partners.
• It is a plus if the candidate is capable and motivated to develop and expand engineering engagement with our business partners to support our overall R/D and production activities for our 1.6T and 3.2T pluggable products as well as CPO/NPO product lineup.
• Need light travel to other sites to facilitate the implementation of the Switch-based test platform and standardize the XDVT execution.

Education & Experience

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field with 9+ years of relevant industry experience, or
• M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field with 7+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in optical transceiver validation, system-level debugging, product characterization, and cross-functional technical collaboration.
• Experience working in data center networking, optical communications, or high-speed interconnect technologies is strongly preferred.

Skills & Other Requirements

• Strong programming skills with Python is preferred.
• Familiar with optical transceiver product characterization, validation and failure analysis in Switch-based system.
• Familiar with or capable of quick learning on Switch OS, such as Sonic by MSFT, Cumulus by Nvidia and VEOS by Arista.
• Experience in link performance optimization on Switch rack system in data center is a plus.
• Basic knowledge in IEEE standards in terms of test specs and test methodologies.
• Solid knowledge in PCBA, RF and fiber optics is highly preferred.
• Strong laboratory optical and electrical measurement skills required.
• Hands‑on experience in optical test instruments, such as DCA, OSA, BERT, etc., is a must.
• Strong data analysis skills with SQL, JMP, MS Excel.
• Strong skills in communication, presentation and documentation.

Working Conditions

• This position is on‑site.
• May require occasional off‑site meetings with customers/Switch/DSP vendors.
• May require light travel to other R/D sites in Asia area.
• Extensive use of the computer and other test equipment.
• Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job.
• May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours to accommodate some urgent tasks.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards. This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities. Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently, that risk assessments are performed, proper training and work instructions are provided and PPE is available, and compliance is monitored.

Quality And Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Equal Opportunity Statement

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [e-mail].