Senior Photonic Systems Engineer: Lab & Applications Lead

Neara; Santa Clara (CA); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Neara is seeking a Senior Photonic Systems & Applications Engineer in Santa Clara, CA. This hybrid, full-time role focuses on hands-on lab testing of photonic components, PICs, and systems, and leads project work with ecosystem partners and customers for platform compatibility in communications, lidar, quantum computing, sensing, and more.

The role requires strong background in optical, electrical, and high‑speed system integration design, modelling, and testing, with excellent communication and

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or related field.
• Relevant experience in design, test, and debug of photonic and high‑speed systems, particularly transceivers, is required.
• Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a collaborative mindset.
• Hands‑on experience with optical and high‑speed test equipment.
• Strong Python (or similar) programming ability. Familiarity with firmware architectures and debug.
• Ability to read a schematic, ability to debug, and general familiarity with printed circuit boards (PCBs).
• Experience in design and test of photonic modules such as transceivers or Lidar modules
• Proficiency with Keysight ADS, and understanding of small and large‑signal modelling of high‑speed communication systems.

Responsibilities

• Optical & High‑Speed Evaluation Hardware Characterisation: Characterise photonic components and PICs fabricated on OpenLight's platform and assess high‑speed systems performance.
• Demonstrations: Build and support technology demonstrations on‑site and at conferences.
• Evaluation Hardware Development: Lead programmes to architect and define new evaluation hardware and oversee design, fabrication, and delivery.
• High‑Speed Modeling: Model small and large‑signal performance of high‑speed components on PCBs/substrates.
• Internal and External Communication: Generate customer‑facing documentation and share findings.
• Customer System Integration Support: Assist customers with integration questions and provide supporting material.

Skills

Python programming

Schematic reading

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Lab testing experience

Education

Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or related field

Tools

Keysight ADS

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Neara is seeking a Senior Photonic Systems & Applications Engineer in Santa Clara, CA. This hybrid, full-time role focuses on hands-on lab testing of photonic components, PICs, and systems, and leads project work with ecosystem partners and customers for platform compatibility in communications, lidar, quantum computing, sensing, and more.

The role requires strong background in optical, electrical, and high‑speed system integration design, modelling, and testing, with excellent communication and