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# Hardware Development Engineer, Photonics

- **Company:** OPENLIGHT PHOTONICS, INC.
- **Location:** Goleta, CA, United States
- **Salary:** $140,000.0 - $180,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Data Analysis, Computer Programming, Software Debugging, Firmware, Hardware Design, Python (Programming Language), System Testing, Systems Integration, Lidar
- **Published:** October 14, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.com/details/5923061441

## About the Role

* Education: Degree in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or related field
 * Experience: Relevant experience in RF photonic and high-speed optical communication system testing and analysis is required
 * Skills:
o Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a collaborative mindset
o Hands-on experience with optical and high-speed test equipment
o Strong Python (or similar) programming ability. Familiarity with firmware architectures and debug
o Ability to read a schematic, ability to debug, and general familiarity with printed circuit boards (PCBs)
o Experience in design and test of photonic modules such as transceivers or Lidar modules
o Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, partners, and customers
o Ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment and adapt to evolving priorities
o Self-starting and independent but able to collaborate with teams inside and outside the company

## Description

* Optical & High-Speed Evaluation Hardware Characterization: Characterize photonic components and PICs fabricated on OpenLight's integrated photonic platform including lasers, modulators, amplifiers, and other optical components. RF characterization of high speed photonic systems for bandwidth, large signal eye-diagram performance, and BER. Work with PCBs and substrates that integrate OpenLight PICs with control and high-speed electronics including DSPs. Build and develop test stations including equipment procurement, test station automation, and test code development. Debug and enhance existing firmware. Analyze data, summarize findings, and clearly communicate conclusions
 * Demonstrations: Build and support technology demonstrations on-site and at conferences, communicating clearly and effectively with customers
 * Data Analysis and Communication: Analyze data, summarize findings, and clearly communicate conclusions
 * Internal and External Communication: Engage with team members and customers, including generating customer-facing documentation
 * Customer System Integration Support: Address customer inquiries and provide detailed and clear documentation of test results and conclusions. Support customer system integration of OpenLight PICs by answering technical questions and supplying supporting documentation