PIC Test Engineer- Tempe

QCi; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Tempe, Arizona is seeking a PIC Test Engineer to support the characterization of photonic integrated circuits. The successful candidate will perform electrical and optical testing, develop automated procedures, and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams. Requires a Master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field and at least 3 years of hands-on experience. Strong communication and analytical skills are essential for this onsite role.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of hands-on experience testing photonic integrated circuits.
• Experience with fiber optics and/or free-space optics.
• Strong knowledge of waveguide theory and photonic device physics.

Responsibilities

• Perform optical and electrical characterization of photonic integrated circuits.
• Analyze test data to identify opportunities for improvements.
• Develop and refine automated test procedures to enhance efficiency.

Skills

Optical and electrical characterization

Test automation

Data analysis with Python or MATLAB

Strong communication skills

Education

Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Photonics

Tools

Vector Network Analyzer (VNA)

Optical Spectrum Analyzer

Laser swept systems

Job description

Position Description

This is a fully onsite opportunity based in Tempe, Arizona. The PIC Test Engineer will support the characterization and evaluation of photonic integrated circuits in a fabrication environment and will work closely with design and manufacturing teams to analyze device performance, improve test methods, and help strengthen foundry capabilities. This role is well suited for someone who brings hands-on experience testing photonic devices and enjoys working at the intersection of engineering development, measurement, and manufacturing.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform optical and electrical characterization of fabricated photonic integrated circuits and evaluate results against expected performance targets.
• Analyze test data to identify opportunities for design, process, or test improvements.
• Develop, refine, and support automated test procedures where appropriate to improve repeatability and throughput.
• Work with optical and electrical characterization tools such as laser swept systems, optical spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, lightwave component analyzers, interferometry, and related equipment.
• Collaborate with fabrication and design teams to review device behavior, assess fabrication robustness, and support iteration planning for future runs.
• Contribute to yield understanding, defect analysis, and overall test methodology improvement.
• Support efforts related to automated measurement, remote instrument control, and data-driven test workflows.

Required Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience testing photonic integrated circuits involving fiber optics and/or free-space optics.
• At least 1 year of experience with high-speed electro-optic modulator characterization using tools such as VNA or LCA.
• Programming ability in Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis and automation.
• Strong knowledge of waveguide theory, coupling mechanisms, and electrical and photonic device physics.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively across technical teams.

Qualifications

• Experience with quantum or nonlinear photonic systems or similar applications.
• Experience testing packaged hybrid photonic/electronic devices.
• Experience with yield estimation, defect analysis, or failure analysis.
• Experience with automated test systems or lab equipment remote control.
• Exposure to 5S, Six Sigma, or similar process-improvement methodologies.