Senior Optical Test Engineer

Mixx Technologies; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Mixx Technologies is seeking an Optical Test Engineer to develop and validate next-generation silicon photonics and optical interconnect designs in a fast-paced R&D environment. The role focuses on hands-on validation, precision alignment, and building automated test environments to ensure top performance for AI infrastructure.

Responsibilities include designing fixtures, automating data collection with Python, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure robust optical performance

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.
• 5+ years in an optical lab with precision alignment.
• Proven ability to design test fixtures and hardware setups for optical characterization.
• Strong Python programming for test automation and data analysis.
• Deep understanding of optical physics including coupling efficiency, polarization, and loss mechanisms.

Responsibilities

• Execute hands-on laboratory testing for optical components and systems with micron and sub-micron alignment.
• Design and develop custom fixturing and mechanical supports for complex test setups to ensure stability and repeatability.
• Develop automation scripts (e.g., Python) to control lab equipment, collect data, and streamline tests.
• Collaborate with packaging and electrical engineers to validate optical performance in real conditions.
• Analyze and present test data, correlating results with simulations to drive improvements.
• Maintain and calibrate high-precision optical test equipment including light sources and power meters.

Job description

About Mixx Technologies

Mixx Technologies is building next-generation optical interconnect solutions that enable true system-level integration for hyperscale data centers. We combine expertise in silicon photonics, packaging, fiber connectivity and system integration to deliver products that set new standards for performance, density, and scalability to drive the next generation of artificial intelligence.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Optical Test Engineer to join our team in developing cutting-edge silicon photonics and optical interconnect designs. In this role, you will be responsible for the hands-on validation of high-density optical systems, requiring extreme precision in micron and sub-micron scaled alignment. You will bridge the gap between design and reality by building automated test environments and designing custom fixtures to ensure our next-generation AI infrastructure meets the highest performance standards

Key Responsibilities

• Execute hands-on laboratory testing for optical components and systems with a focus on micron and sub-micron scaled alignment requirements.
• Design and develop custom fixturing and mechanical supports for new, complex test setups to ensure stability and repeatability.
• Develop automation scripts (e.g. Python) to control laboratory equipment, automate data collection, and streamline testing workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including packaging and electrical engineers, to validate optical performance in operational conditions.
• Analyze and present test data, correlating experimental results with design simulations to drive iterative improvements.
• Maintain and calibrate high-precision optical test equipment, including light sources, power meters, and alignment stages.

Key Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in an optical laboratory environment, specifically dealing with precision alignment and fiber connectivity.
• Proven ability to design test fixtures and hardware setups for advanced optical characterization.
• Strong programming skills for test automation and data analysis (e.g., Python).
• Deep understanding of optical physics, including coupling efficiency, polarization, and loss mechanisms in silicon photonics or fiber systems.
• Experience in a fast-paced R&D environment, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality data.

Preferred Skills

• Proficiency in Zemax OpticStudio for optical design, modeling, and stray light analysis.
• Familiarity with silicon photonics and 2.5D/3D packaging architectures.
• Experience with optical-thermal interactions or electro-optical co-simulation.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex experimental findings into actionable design recommendations.

Why Join Us

At Mixx Technologies, you’ll be part of a fast-moving team rethinking what’s possible in AI infrastructure. We offer a collaborative culture, deep technical challenges, and the opportunity to shape the mechanics behind the world’s most advanced computing systems