Staff PIC Test Development Engineer

Jobtailor; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading telecommunications company in California is seeking a skilled engineer to join their Optical Networks division. This role involves designing test plans for validating performance in semiconductor optics. Candidates should have experience with semiconductor device characteristics and programming skills in C, Python, or similar. A PhD in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics, along with a minimum of 3 years’ industry experience, is required. Join a dynamic team dedicated to innovation and excellence in connectivity solutions.

Qualifications

• Fundamental understanding of semiconductor optoelectronic device characteristics.
• Hands-on experience with electrical and optical characterization techniques.
• Programming experience for automation of instrument control.

Responsibilities

• Design test plans and algorithms for performance validation tests.
• Develop and document test hardware and software solutions.
• Create automated production-level test solutions.

Skills

Semiconductor optoelectronic device characteristics

Electrical and optical characterization techniques

Programming in Matlab, C, C++, Python, LabVIEW, VB.net

Test automation and data analysis

Test hardware and software troubleshooting

Database tools like JMP, SQL

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics

Job description

Overview

In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise.

Join Optical Networks division, where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we've united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse—combining cutting‑edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity.

NION2026

Responsibilities

• Design test plans and algorithms of PIC/subassembly performance validation tests
• Develop, implement, and document test hardware and software solutions supporting new device characterization
• Development of fully automated production‑level test solutions, including motion/vision control HW and SW
• Extensive test station qualification work, including Gage RR and statistical process control (SPC)
• Thorough documentation of all test solutions and communication to other teams
• Tracking of schedules and milestones for test development projects

Qualifications

• Fundamental understanding of active and passive semiconductor optoelectronic device characteristics (e.g. semiconductor lasers/amplifiers, photo diodes, modulators, waveguides)
• Hands‑on experience with semiconductor electrical and optical characterization techniques (e.g. diode characterization, laser threshold, spectral measurements, optical power measurements)
• Programming experience in Matlab, C, C++, Python, LabVIEW, VB.net or similar for automation of instrument control and data acquisition
• Software development skills and strong drive for test automation and data analysis
• Ability to build, maintain and troubleshoot complex test hardware and software in a cross‑functional environment
• Experience with a production‑level test environment (including Gage RR, SPC, tool qualification) is a plus.
• Experience with database tools like JMP, SQL is a plus.
• Attention to detail and willingness to produce detailed documentation
• Ability to work within a team environment, clearly and concise communication inside and outside the Test team

Education / Experience

PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or equivalent with a minimum of 3 years of applicable graduate‑level and/or industrial experience in optical communications or photonics, or a Master’s degree with 3+ years of applicable industry experience.

Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you’re interested in this role but don’t meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role’s requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia.