Optical Fiber R&D Engineer - Lab Innovation & Impact

Lightera; New Jersey; On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Tuition reimbursement

Matching 401(k)

Job summary

Lightera in the United States is seeking a motivated R&D Engineer to join our optical fiber R&D team. You will design experiments, build measurement systems, analyze data, and support manufacturing initiatives in a fast-paced setting.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Physics or Optical Engineering, hands-on lab experience, and programming skills (Python/C) for automation and data collection. Strong collaboration and documentation are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Physics, Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Strong understanding of optics, optical systems, and laboratory measurement techniques.
• Experience designing, conducting, and analyzing laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C, or similar languages used for automation, data acquisition, and equipment control.
• Experience interfacing laboratory instrumentation with computer-based control and measurement systems is preferred.
• Knowledge of engineering principles related to mechanical systems, motion control, or fluid dynamics is a plus.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly document technical work.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and optimize experiments to support the research and development of optical fiber technologies, manufacturing processes, and measurement systems.
• Develop, build, and improve laboratory test setups, including optical and fiber-based measurement systems.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare clear, accurate technical documentation and reports.
• Troubleshoot laboratory equipment, measurement systems, and manufacturing processes to identify and resolve technical issues.
• Support the development, operation, and continuous improvement of research fabrication processes and equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives and support company research initiatives.
• Develop and maintain software tools or automation solutions for data collection, experiment control, and laboratory efficiency.
• Maintain organized documentation, experimental records, and technical procedures.
• Ensure laboratory equipment and work areas are maintained in a safe, clean, and organized condition.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and continuously expand technical knowledge to support innovation.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of business and project objectives.

Skills

Optics/optical engineering

Programming (Python/C)

Laboratory measurement techniques

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Physics/Optical Engineering/related

Tools

Lab instrumentation control

Automation scripting

Job description

Lightera in the United States is seeking a motivated R&D Engineer to join our optical fiber R&D team. You will design experiments, build measurement systems, analyze data, and support manufacturing initiatives in a fast-paced setting.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Physics or Optical Engineering, hands-on lab experience, and programming skills (Python/C) for automation and data collection. Strong collaboration and documentation are essential.