Principal Optical System Engineer

Lumentum; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 124,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Principal Optical System Engineer, where you'll design and develop advanced optical systems for next-generation fiber optic transceivers. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create high-performance optical subsystems that meet stringent requirements. This role offers the opportunity to innovate in a dynamic environment, working with cutting-edge technology and contributing to impactful projects. If you have a passion for optics and a collaborative mindset, this is the perfect opportunity to advance your career while making a difference in the industry.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in optics principles and hands-on experience in optical system design.
• Experience developing transceivers with market success is ideal.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design optical systems to meet performance criteria using simulation tools.
• Collaborate with suppliers to source high-quality optical components for production.

Skills

Optical System Design

Optical Simulation Software

Optics Principles

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Problem-Solving Mindset

Education

MS or PhD in Optical Engineering

Physics or Related Field

Tools

ZEMAX

FRED

Lumerical

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Principal Optical System Engineer – Cloud Module R&D

Location: San Jose, CA, USA
Company: Lumentum

About the Role

Lumentum is seeking an experienced Principal Optical System Engineer to join our Cloud Module R&D team in San Jose, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for designing and developing advanced optical systems and packaging for next-generation fiber optic transceivers. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and optical communication system engineers, to create high-performance optical subsystems that meet stringent technical, environmental, and manufacturability requirements.

A successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in optics principles, hands-on experience in optical system design, and a collaborative, problem-solving mindset.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and design optical systems and components to meet performance criteria using simulation tools such as ZEMAX, FRED, Lumerical, etc.
• Collaborate with suppliers to source cost-effective, high-quality optical components for high-volume production.
• Integrate optical components into mechanical and electronic systems alongside mechanical and electrical engineers for products such as chip-on-board optical transceivers and co-packaged optics.
• Conduct testing and validation to ensure optical systems meet required specifications, performance targets, and reliability standards.

Required Skills & Experience

• MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Experience of developing various transceivers with market success is ideal
• Strong background in optical system design, including experience with optical simulation software (e.g., ZEMAX, Code V, FRED).
• Proficiency in optical principles and their application to fiber optical communication systems.
• Experience in silicon photonics-based products and applications is a plus.
• Track record of innovation with a multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving.
• Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration and technical documentation.
• Self-motivated, results-driven team player with a passion for cutting-edge technology.

Note: Candidates who are highly motivated and have a strong technical foundation are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet all the listed qualifications.

Pay Range:

P70-USA-1 :$124,600.00 - $178,000.00

Disclaimer:

Final base salary for the successful candidate will depend on multiple factors, including but not limited to, job location, where work will be performed, qualifications, work history and relevant experience. With our continual goal of making Lumentum a best place to work for our employees, we strive to offer employees competitive total compensation packages, which may include annual bonus, commission for certain sales roles, equity, and health and welfare benefits.