Senior Optical Validation Engineer: Fiber-to-Chip Precision

Ayar Labs, Inc.; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 192,000; Full time

Job summary

Ayar Labs, Inc. in San Jose is seeking a hands-on Optical Validation Engineer to join our Optical Packaging team. You will develop precision optical measurement methods to characterize fiber-to-chip interfaces, quantify alignment tolerances, and validate coupling performance.

This role combines free-space optics, component metrology, and optical modeling. You will correlate laboratory measurements with model predictions to isolate sources of excess loss and performance variation.

Qualifications

• BS in Optics, Photonics, Physics or Optical Engineering with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to develop optical characterization methods for components or packaged devices.
• Strong grasp of Gaussian beam optics, fiber modes, and free-space propagation.
• Hands-on experience in experimental free-space optics.
• Proficiency with Zemax, Code V, or equivalent optical modeling tools.
• Ability to design experiments and analyze optical data to identify root causes.

Responsibilities

• Develop optical characterization setups for fiber arrays, connectors, and micro‑optical components.
• Characterize optical components and interfaces to assess performance against design requirements.
• Model optical propagation and coupling to quantify sensitivity to geometry, alignment, and component variation.
• Correlate component, wafer, and package measurements with optical models to identify the physical causes of excess loss.
• Define test structures and measurement requirements for new optical interfaces with photonics and packaging teams.
• Communicate findings and recommend component or assembly changes to internal teams and suppliers.

Skills

Optical characterization methods

Gaussian beam optics

Free-space optics

Experimental design

Data analysis

Cross-team communication

Education

BS in Optics / Photonics / Physics / Optical Engineering

Master's or PhD (preferred)

Tools

Zemax

Code V

Job description

Ayar Labs, Inc. in San Jose is seeking a hands-on Optical Validation Engineer to join our Optical Packaging team. You will develop precision optical measurement methods to characterize fiber-to-chip interfaces, quantify alignment tolerances, and validate coupling performance.

This role combines free-space optics, component metrology, and optical modeling. You will correlate laboratory measurements with model predictions to isolate sources of excess loss and performance variation.