Photonics Engineer

Summary:

This role involves fast prototyping and validation of next-generation solutions in optical, photonic, AI-assisted, and high-speed connectivity test technologies, and collaborating with global R&D teams to define the future of test & measurement. Key innovation domains include silicon photonics, co-packaged optics (CPO), DCI/optical interconnects, all-photonic networks, 6G-ready optical test architectures, and AI-automated intelligent test solutions.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Job Description:

VIAVI Solutions is seeking a highly creative and hands-on Photonics Engineer to join the CTO Innovation Center in Singapore. This role involves fast prototyping and validation of next-generation solutions in optical, photonic, AI-assisted, and high-speed connectivity test technologies, and collaborating with global R&D teams to define the future of test & measurement. Key innovation domains include silicon photonics, co-packaged optics (CPO), DCI/optical interconnects, all-photonic networks, 6G-ready optical test architectures, and AI-automated intelligent test solutions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Rapid Photonic Prototyping

• Design and build prototypes for test solutions for silicon photonics, CPO, optical transceivers, DCI testing, and next-generation photonic test platforms.
• Conduct feasibility studies, system bring-up, optical characterization, and performance validation.

2. AI-Automated Test Development

• Develop AI-assisted testing workflows for photonic and high-speed optical systems.
• Build intelligent test routines using machine learning for calibration, optimization, anomaly detection, and root-cause analysis.
• Explore autonomous test benches, reinforcement-learning-based test strategies, or digital-twin-driven optical test automation.
• Prototype AI-driven decision engines that accelerate test throughput and improve measurement accuracy.

3. System Architecture & Concept Innovation

• Define future test architectures that combine photonics, software, and AI automation.
• Investigate new measurement techniques, optical front-ends, and integrated AI signal processing.
• Translate early-stage concepts into recommendations for product roadmaps and R&D planning.

4. Collaboration & External Engagement

• Work closely with global VIAVI R&D teams to transition successful prototypes to product development.
• Support internal demos, technology showcases, and cross-organization innovation initiatives.

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:

Qualifications

Required

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Optics/Photonics, Physics, Computer Engineering, or related fields.
• Knowledge of high-speed optical transmission (100G/400G/800G/1.6T) and advanced modulation formats.
• Strong hands-on skills with optical instruments (OSA, BERT, AWG, DSO, optical power meters, spectrum analyzers, etc.).
• Experience with silicon photonics, optical transceivers, DCI systems, CPO, or photonic component testing.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data analysis, automation, and prototyping.
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn) for basic AI prototyping.
• Strong experimental mindset and passion for fast iterative prototyping.

Preferred

• Experience building automated test systems, AI-assisted measurement workflows, or optical digital twins.
• Background in photonic packaging, alignment automation, or high-precision optical setups.
• Experience developing ML models for classification, optimization, anomaly detection, or reinforcement learning for control systems.
• Experience working in innovation labs or early-stage technology concepting roles.