R&D Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

401k Match

Job summary

Lightera seeks an innovative R&D Engineer to join our optics research team. You will design and execute experiments, develop measurement systems, and analyze data to support research and manufacturing initiatives.

A collaborative, hands‑on laboratory environment awaits with opportunities to push new technologies in a fast‑paced setting. The ideal candidate has a strong technical foundation, hands‑on lab experience, and excellent communication skills, enabling effective documentation and

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in a technical discipline (Physics, Optical/Engineering, Materials).
• Strong background in optics, optical systems, and laboratory measurements.
• Experience designing, conducting, and analyzing laboratory experiments.
• Programming proficiency in Python, C, or similar for automation and data acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to advance next‑generation optical fiber technologies.
• Develop measurement systems and data analysis pipelines.
• Analyze experimental data to inform research and manufacturing initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to accelerate development and implementation.

Skills

Python

C programming

Optics

Laboratory measurements

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Documentation

Education

Master's degree or higher in Physics

Master's degree or higher in Optical Engineering

Master's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree or higher in Materials Science

Tools

LabVIEW

Data acquisition systems

Oscilloscopes

Instrumentation interfacing

Job description

LIGHTERA has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, which goes back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone more than a century ago. We have a proven track record of being first in the industry with application specific fibers, optical connectors, ribbon cables, erbium doped fibers, Raman fiber lasers, fiber gratings and more. Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and supplying the best optical fibers, fiber cable and components and devices for our customers, with exceptional service that creates value for our shareholders, customers and employees. To do so, we must continue shaping the future of communications by applying the best minds to the challenges our customers will continually face.

We are seeking a motivated and innovative R&D Engineer to join our research and development team. In this role, you will contribute to the development of next‑generation optical fiber technologies by designing and executing experiments, developing measurement systems, analyzing data, and supporting research and manufacturing initiatives. The ideal candidate is a collaborative problem solver with a strong technical foundation, hands‑on laboratory experience, and a passion for advancing new technologies in a fast‑paced R&D environment.

Key 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.

General Expectations

• Demonstrate effective communications (verbal, written) skills
• Proficient with MS Office Word and Excel
• Maintain discretion when working with confidential and proprietary information
• Strict adherence to Company safety policies and procedures
• Conform to all aspects of Lightera’s “Standards of Conduct” document

Working at LIGHTERA means having the opportunity to realize ideas, experience innovation and discover new solutions for the future.

In addition to our dynamic work environment, we offer competitive salaries and generous benefits programs.

• medical, dental, tuition reimbursement and a matching 401(k) plan.

Employees are expected to serve as role models for safe work practices and behaviors. This includes following established health and safety policies and procedures, maintaining a clean, organized work area, wearing, and properly storing all personal protective equipment (PPE), and actively engaging as a safety conscious worker with personal safety and wellness as a priority.

Note: Only those candidates selected for the interview process will be contacted.

About Lightera

Lightera is a global leader in optical fiber and connectivity solutions, delivering innovative technologies that drive communication networks, data centers, and specialty photonics applications. With a deep legacy of expertise in optical science, we provide high‑performance solutions that enable faster, more reliable, and more sustainable connections for businesses, communities, and industries worldwide.

Headquartered in Norcross, Georgia, U.S.A., Lightera operates with a global footprint, serving customers across telecommunications, enterprise, industrial, generative AI, data centers, 5G/6G, utilities, medical, aerospace, defense, and sensing markets. Lightera is part of Furukawa Electric Group, a multi‑billion‑dollar leader in optical communications.

Lightera is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.