> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2697876-principal-hardware-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2697876-principal-hardware-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Hardware Engineer - **Company:** Lumentum - **Location:** San Jose, CA, United States - **Salary:** $145,600.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Data Analysis, Application Testing, Network Analysis, Firmware, Hardware Design, Python (Programming Language), Visual Systems, Hardware Testing - **Published:** September 3, 2026 - **Apply:** https://lumentum.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/LITE/job/USA---CA---San-Jose-Ridder/Principal-Hardware-Engineer_20261158 ## About the Role BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field. Proven Industry Expertise: * Extensive background in designing high-speed electronic or optical systems, with a demonstrable track record of successful product releases and significant design ownership. Subject-Matter Expertise: * Recognized SME in hardware design, with deep theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills. * Advanced understanding of industry standards (e.g., Telcordia) and best practices for product qualification. Technical Depth: * Proficiency with high-speed integrated circuits (e.g., DSPs, drivers, TIAs) and test equipment (oscilloscopes, network analyzers, DCA, etc.). * Strong scripting ability (Python or similar) for automation and data analysis. Leadership & Mentorship: * Demonstrated success in leading and mentoring technical teams, particularly in a fast-paced, global R&D environment. * Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills. Desired Qualifications Innovation Mindset: * Proven ability to innovate and elevate testing and analysis methodologies that enhance performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Multi-Disciplinary Approach: * Background bridging optical, mechanical, electrical, and materials science disciplines, fostering synergy across multiple technical areas. Strategic Influence: * Experience providing high-level guidance to technical leads and steering cross-functional projects to align with broader organizational goals. Continuous Improvement: * History of championing process improvements and implementing effective solutions to drive down costs and speed up development cycles. ## Description As a Principal Hardware Engineer, you will be recognized as a subject-matter expert (SME) in hardware design, opto-electronic packaging, and materials science. You will mentor and guide technical leads as well as junior team members, ensuring that next-generation products are delivered on time and at the highest standards of quality. What You'll Be Doing Subject-Matter Expertise in Hardware Design: * Serve as a recognized SME in optical transceiver hardware design and development with a deep understanding of hardware theory and its application to real-world challenges. * Provide high-level guidance and mentorship to cross-functional teams, ensuring best practices are consistently implemented. Opto-Electronic Package Leadership: * Act as a go-to expert on cost-effective opto-electronic packaging, component design, and integration strategies that meet or exceed performance and cost objectives. * Offer strategic input on complex packaging challenges and lead high-impact initiatives to optimize product reliability, manufacturability, and budgetary constraints. Standards & Compliance Authority: * Demonstrate expert knowledge of design specifications, compliance requirements, and qualification standards (e.g., Telcordia). * Provide guidance to technical leads for testing and analysis of complex hardware systems, ensuring product designs align with industry and regulatory standards. Advanced Materials Science Expertise: * Recognized as a SME in materials science, applying a deep understanding of material properties and behaviors to resolve complex hardware development issues. * Provide expert-level advice on material selection, testing, and analysis methodologies to support robust and reliable hardware solutions. Hardware Testing & Troubleshooting: * Lead the planning and execution of advanced testing and analysis on complex hardware systems and components, diagnosing issues swiftly and implementing innovative solutions. * Oversee continuous improvement initiatives, driving new test methodologies that elevate product performance and reliability. High-Speed Circuit & PCB Design: * Continue to own and innovate on PCB design, focusing on high power efficiency, low noise, small footprints, and seamless integration with high-speed components (e.g., DSPs, drivers, TIAs). * Collaborate closely with CAD engineers and cross-functional teams to ensure holistic design approaches. Cross-Functional & Global Collaboration: * Provide technical leadership for cross-disciplinary projects involving firmware, test, materials, and manufacturing engineers, championing effective communication and alignment. * Partner with global teams (US, Europe, Asia) to share expertise, drive continuous innovation, and deliver industry-leading products. ## Related Videos - [Strange New Worlds: shaping the future of the digital age](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/677-strange-new-worlds-shaping-the-future-of-the-digital-age) - [Playing Pong on a shoulder press machine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100140-playing-pong-on-a-shoulder-press-machine) - [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail) - [Solving Architectural Entropy With Runnable Diagrams](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100144-solving-architectural-entropy-with-runnable-diagrams) - [Photonic Computing: Programming a New Class of AI Accelerators (incl. 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