Staff / Sr. Staff Photonics Test Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 18, 2026. First seen by Alion on Apr 24, 2026. Lightmatter scores B on the Alion truth index.
Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world’s first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™, capable of connecting thousands to millions of processors at the speed of light in extreme-scale data centers for the most advanced AI and HPC workloads.
Lightmatter raised $400 million in its Series D round, reaching a valuation of $4.4 billion. We will continue to accelerate the development of data center photonics and grow every department at Lightmatter!
If you're passionate about tackling complex challenges, making an impact, and being an expert in your craft, join our team of brilliant scientists, engineers, and accomplished industry leaders.
Lightmatter is (re)inventing the future of computing with light!
About this Role
You will be focused on architecting wafer, package and system level characterization and test strategies of Lightmatter’s novel Silicon Photonic product line. As part of this role you will have the ability to directly influence the design and development of Lightmatter silicon photonics technologies. You will be part of a growing interdisciplinary team with a lot of opportunities to learn and make a big impact.
Responsibilities
- Work directly with the architecture and design teams to understand the technology and conceptualize characterization and test techniques targeting feedback for design model validations.
- Architect test concepts, test platforms, design for test rules, and provide feedback early on during the technology concept phase.
- Create detailed test plan documentation and ensure timely execution.
- Define, develop, and setup of wafer, package and system level tests for Lightmatter silicon photonics products.
- Develop test software to enable test execution, data analysis, and parameter extraction.
- Work with vendors to specify and procure test equipment.
- Setup and operate a range of optical equipment such as tunable lasers, power meters, polarization synthesizer, OBR/OVA, and high-speed test equipment.
- Engage with silicon and platform validation teams and bridge any gaps between test and validation teams.
- Work with OSAT teams to define, validate, and refine test techniques for high volume manufacturing.
- Work with the reliability team for pre and post-stress test needs.
- Keep up to date with the latest developments in Silicon Photonics technology and testability.
Requirements:
- Master’s in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field
- A minimum of 6+ years of proven experience in silicon photonics test development
- Proven industrial experience in supporting new product introduction and volume production
- Understanding of Silicon Photonics components and circuits
- Experience working with design teams to define test cells for model feedback and validation
- Hands on experience in characterization and test of photonics components and circuits
- Direct experience in high-speed photonic device test and familiar with test equipment such as AWG, DCA, DSO, PNA, LCA
- Experience in test system automation using Python, C#, or other languages
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and solve issues during the testing process
- Ability to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field
- 2+ years of photonic component or circuit design experience
- Exposure to system link bring-up
This role requires working in out Mountain View, CA office 3 - 5 days a week.
This role is open to multiple levels. Education, years of experience, and interview performance will be the determining factor for leveling.
Staff: $187,000 - $220,000
Sr Staff: $215,000 - $260,000
We offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data.
Salary Range: total compensation goes beyond base salary, it also includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.
$187,000—$260,000 USD
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Savings Matching Program
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Paid Family Leave
- Short Term & Long Term Disability
- Training & Development
- Commuter Benefits
- Flexible, hybrid workplace model
- Equity grants (applicable to full-time employees)
Benefits eligibility may vary depending on your employment status and location. 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.
Export Control
Candidates should have capacity to comply with the federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws.