Vice President of Engineering – Optical Circuit Switch (OCS)

Coherent Corp.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Coherent Corp. is seeking a leader to define OCS technology and product roadmap. You will be responsible for building a multi-disciplinary engineering organization, engaging with hyperscale customers, and delivering high-quality OCS platforms from concept to production. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in photonics and optical design, and expertise in managing engineering teams. The role emphasizes innovation in optical technologies and includes minimal physical requirements with some travel obligations.

Qualifications

• Build and lead a world-class, multi-disciplinary engineering organization.
• Deliver high-volume production capabilities.
• Drive innovation in optical switching technologies.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the OCS technology and product roadmap.
• Lead system-level design of large-scale optical fabrics.
• Engage with hyperscale customers and ecosystem partners.

Skills

Photonics / optical design

ASIC / control electronics

Firmware and system software

Mechanical and packaging engineering

Job description

Job Description

• Define and drive the OCS technology and product roadmap
• Lead system-level design of large-scale optical fabrics
• Build and lead a multi‑disciplinary engineering organization in different countries and locations
• Deliver OCS platforms from concept to production
• Engage with hyperscale customers and ecosystem partners
• Drive innovation and IP strategy
• Ensure manufacturing scalability and operational excellence

Education & Experience

Build and lead a world‑class, multi‑disciplinary engineering organization across the following disciplines:

• Photonics / optical design
• ASIC / control electronics
• Firmware and system software
• Mechanical and packaging engineering

Deliver OCS platforms from concept through prototype, qualification, and high‑volume production. Establish best practices in design for manufacturability (DFM), test, and reliability engineering. Foster a culture of innovation and execution.

Customer & Ecosystem Engagement

• Serve as the primary technical executive interface to hyperscale customers (e.g., cloud and AI infrastructure providers)
• Translate system‑level requirements (e.g., topology, bandwidth scaling, reconfiguration time) into product specifications
• Collaborate with partners across the ecosystem (optics, fiber, packaging, and system vendors)

Innovation & Differentiation

• Drive innovation in:
  • High‑radix and high‑density OCS architectures
  • Low‑loss optical paths and packaging
  • Fast and scalable switching control planes
• Build and manage IP strategy and patent portfolio in optical switching technologies

Physical Requirements

• Minimal physical activity: little to no heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or manual labor is required
• Computer use: frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse for communication, project management and collaboration tools
• Travel: some travel may be required for client meetings, conferences, or site visits, but this is not a core part of the job

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and other applicable standards within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company values: Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust; Collaboration – Innovate Through Sharing of Ideas; Accountability – Own the Process and Outcome; Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone; Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work.

Equal Opportunity

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact [e-mail].