Sr. Staff Photonics/Test Characterization Engineer (Boston)

Lightmatter builds chips for artificial intelligence computing. Our architecture leverages unique properties of light to enable fast and efficient inference and training engines. If you're a collaborative engineer or scientist who has a passion for innovation, solving challenging technical problems and doing impactful work like building the world's first optical computers, consider joining the team at Lightmatter!

Are you passionate about lab work and device characterization, specifically within the realm of electro-optics testing? Are you enthusiastic about engaging in hands-on experimentation and eager to expand your knowledge in the exciting field of silicon photonics?

If so, we have an excellent job opportunity that will allow you to utilize your skills and knowledge to push the boundaries of computing technology, as well as take on a key leadership role as the lab manager, responsible for overseeing lab operations and ensuring its smooth operation.

We are looking for a self-starter, someone that is very comfortable with innovative technology and familiar with software programs for management, data analysis, and equipment testing. Having previous knowledge in optical/photonics tests is crucial. Previous experience with test automation and databases will be relevant here. If you have familiarity with optical instruments (power meters, OSA, fiber components), you should join our team!

*Our lab is located in Boston, and due to the nature of the work, we will need you to be on-site in our Boston location.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and manage projects, coordinating with cross-functional teams to meet research objectives and deadlines.
• Develop and implement testing protocols for silicon photonics chips and subsystems, focusing on efficiency and accuracy.
• Design and execute complex experimental setups for a variety of measurements, ensuring accuracy and reliability in data collection.
• Oversee the collection, storage, and analysis of test data, ensuring the integrity and reliability of results.
• Maintain and utilize a database for effective data management and analysis.
• Participate actively in electro-optic testing of photonics chips/devices, utilizing a broad range of optical instruments. 
• Design and integrate automated testing and system interfacing solutions using Python scripting.
• Conduct comprehensive tests and characterization of silicon photonics components, such as micro-rings, optical phase shifters, and Mach-Zehnder interferometers.
• Operate and maintain an automatic probe station, preferably from Formfactor
• Utilize high-speed rf equipment proficiently, such as vector network analyzers and high-speed oscilloscopes, BERT. 
• Communicate test findings effectively to engineering teams and stakeholders, providing valuable design feedback to improve device performance.

*This is not a complete listing of the responsibilities. It’s a representation of the things you will be doing*

Requirements

• 5+ years and a PhD in Photonics, Physics,  Electrical Engineering, or related field. 
• Demonstrate extensive knowledge of silicon photonics devices.
• Must have strong experience in electro-optic testing of silicon photonics components
• Demonstrate strong problem solving skills in problems that do not have obvious solutions
• Expert in developing and implementing automated testing and system interfaces using Python scripting
• Data-driven and analytical; translates numbers into actionable strategies
• Process-oriented and programmatic: builds structure through processes
• Ability to work independently in a typical lab environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience testing high-speed optical links in an integrated circuit is a plus

Professional and Cultural Characteristics:

• A culture champion for Lightmatter, aligns with the company’s light-hearted culture
• Willing and able to learn quickly. Self-starter with a “no task is too big or small” attitude
• Collaborates well with others regardless of discipline
• Innovative and flexible; realizes that a one-size-fits-all approach will not always solve the problem at hand

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• 401k matching
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Paid Family Leave
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Flexible, hybrid workplace model
• Stock Option Plan
• Commuter Benefit (pre-tax)

We offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role, including all US locations, is $175,000 - $195,000. Your base salary will be determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data.

Lightmatter recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.