Optical Systems Engineer

Darwin Recruitment; North Reading (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Darwin Recruitment is seeking a Senior Optical Systems Engineer to join the Silicon Photonics team developing advanced optical test instrumentation for semiconductor applications. You will drive imaging, illumination, sensing and fibre-optic solutions from concept through validation.

The role emphasizes collaboration with foundries, development of automated test equipment, and optimization of test capabilities across wafer to packaged devices. Strong photonics background required.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics or related with Integrated Photonics.
• At least 2 years hands-on silicon photonics device design experience.
• Strong programming skills for data analysis and photonic layout design.
• Experience with silicon photonics foundry tape-outs and PDk familiarity.
• Knowledge of passive optical components (edge/grating/directional couplers, MMIs, polarisation splitters/rotators).
• Practical experience using photonic testing and characterisation equipment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to development of optical test instrumentation from concept to validation.
• Develop optical systems incorporating imaging, illumination, sensing and fibre-optic technologies.
• Design, integrate and validate automated testing solutions for silicon photonic devices and PICs.
• Work closely with silicon photonics foundries to support manufacturing processes and optimise test capabilities.
• Conduct optical testing, measurement and characterisation of photonic devices and integrated circuits.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver advanced semiconductor test solutions.

Skills

Data analysis

Programming

Photonic layout design

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering or Physics (Integrated Photonics)

Tools

PDKs (Process Design Kits)

Job description

Senior Optical Systems Engineer

About the Company

We are a global leader in advanced test and automation solutions, supporting the development and manufacturing of next-generation technologies across the semiconductor and electronics industries.

Our innovative testing and automation technologies help manufacturers deliver high-performance products efficiently, reliably and cost-effectively.

We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive, collaborative and innovative working environment where talented engineers are encouraged to develop their expertise, challenge conventional thinking and contribute to cutting-edge technology.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Senior Optical Systems Engineer to join our Silicon Photonics engineering team, focusing on the development of advanced optical test instrumentation for emerging semiconductor applications.

This role will involve developing sophisticated optical testing solutions, including imaging systems, illumination sources, optical sensors, fibre-optic systems, motion platforms, cameras and image-analysis software.

You will play a key role in defining, developing and validating automated test equipment designed to interface with silicon photonic devices throughout the manufacturing process, from wafer-level probing through to packaged device testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to the development of optical test instrumentation, from initial concept and simulation through to implementation and product validation.

• Develop optical systems incorporating imaging, illumination, sensing and fibre-optic technologies.

• Design, integrate and validate automated testing solutions for silicon photonic devices and photonic integrated circuits (PICs).

• Work closely with silicon photonics foundries to support manufacturing processes and optimise test capabilities.

• Conduct optical testing, measurement and characterisation of photonic devices and integrated circuits.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver advanced semiconductor test solutions.

The position offers flexibility for both experienced engineers and individuals earlier in their careers, depending on technical expertise and experience.

About You

We are interested in engineers with a strong background in integrated photonics, silicon photonics device design and optical testing.

Essential Requirements:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline specialising in Integrated Photonics.

• At least 2 years of hands-on experience in silicon photonics device design.

• Strong programming skills, particularly for data analysis and photonic layout design.

• Experience with silicon photonics foundry tape-outs and familiarity with Process Design Kits (PDKs).

• Knowledge of passive optical components, including edge couplers, grating couplers, directional couplers, multimode interferometers (MMIs), and polarisation splitters and rotators.

• Practical experience using photonic testing and characterisation equipment within a laboratory environment.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.