Principal Optical Systems Engineer

Arycs Technologies; Los Gatos (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge startup located in California is seeking a Principal Optical Systems Engineer. In this role, you will lead the optical system characterization and testing of next-generation coherent pluggable transceivers. The ideal candidate will possess over 10 years of experience in optical system validation, have a strong background in coherent optical technologies, and be proficient in Python for test automation. You'll work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure product excellence and support customer trials effectively.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in optical system testing, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Expertise in coherent optical transceivers and fiber transmission impairments.
• Proficiency with pluggable transceivers and industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level testing of coherent pluggable transceivers and optical engines.
• Plan, execute, and document customer product trials.
• Lead complex customer escalations and resolve network issues.

Skills

Optical system testing

Validation and troubleshooting

Coherent optical transceivers

Python scripting

Communication skills

Tools

OSA

Power meters

OTDR

CD/PMD analyzers

Traffic testers

Job description

Arycs Technologies is a fast-moving startup at the forefront of optical communications, building next-generation optical modules that power AI, data centers, and cloud infrastructure.

Our team is small but mighty, combining deep technical expertise with a bias for action. We believe in solving real-world problems with elegant engineering, and we’re growing fast.

About the Role

As Principal Optical Systems Engineer, you will perform optical system characterization and optimization, leading to product qualification, validation, and field deployment. The position will investigate and develop techniques used in product calibration and control to enhance the overall product performance and reliability of our coherent pluggable transceivers and optical engines.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in coherent optical system analysis and possess the ability to lead customer product trials and troubleshoot complex coherent system issues. The position will collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, firmware, and software design teams to drive innovation and ensure product excellence.

The Principal Optical Systems Engineer role may, from time to time, need to provide direction to others to accommodate a group effort to efficiently complete the functions above.

Key Responsibilities

System Test & Validation:

• Lead system-level testing of coherent pluggable transceivers and optical engines.
• Develop and execute test plans for optical performance, OSNR/ROSNR analysis, and fiber impairments.
• Perform stress testing, stability & repeatability analysis, and firmware validation.
• Automate test scripts using Python to optimize testing efficiency.

Customer Trials & Field Support:

• Plan, execute, and document customer product trials.
• Analyze customer requirements and oversee trial execution in lab and field environments.
• Prepare final trial reports and present findings to internal and external stakeholders.

Escalation & Troubleshooting:

• Lead complex customer escalations, working with cross-functional teams to debug and resolve network issues.
• Develop technical documentation, including technical notes for internal and customer use.

Product Development:

• Contribute to the development of coherent pluggable technology, reviewing PRD, SRD, and design phases.

Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years of experience in optical system testing, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Expertise in coherent optical transceivers and fiber transmission impairments.
• Proficiency with pluggable transceivers and industry standards (OIF/MSA).
• Hands-on experience with optical test equipment: OSA, power meters, OTDR, CD/PMD analyzers, traffic testers.
• Python scripting experience for test automation and data analysis.
• Proven track record of leading customer trials, product escalations, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to present technical findings to customers and stakeholders.