MTS Laser Physics Design & Development Engineer

Overview

Kyocera SLD Laser, Inc. (KSLD) is a global leader in the commercialization of GaN-based laser light sources. As a subsidiary of Kyocera Corporation, KSLD combines laser innovation with manufacturing excellence to deliver high-performance Laser Light solutions for automotive, AR/VR, industrial, biomedical, and display applications. The company operates R&D and manufacturing facilities in Santa Barbara, CA and Fremont, CA.

KSLD holds ISO 14001 & 45001 certifications for automotive applications, and its products meet UL and IEC safety standards. The organization emphasizes quality, safety, and reliability, and maintains a culture focused on collaboration and innovation.

Position: MTS Laser Physics Design and Development Engineer.

Location:

Castilian Dr Office - Goleta, CA. Salary range: $ – $ per year.

• Design and modeling focus with hands-on engagement in device characterization, correlation, and problem solving.
• Laser Device Design & Physics Based Simulation:
  Architect advanced laser diode structures (MQW active regions, wave guides, DFB/D  cavities), perform multiphysics modeling, band structure and waveguide optical simulation, analyze performance tradeoffs and risk.
• Correlation of simulation with experimental data and model calibration.
• Epitaxy to Device Co-Design:
  Translate device performance targets into epitaxial structure requirements, collaborate with the epitaxy team on growth strategies, and lead data-driven design of experiments (DOE).
• Testing, Characterization, Reliability & Correlation:
  Collaborate with Test team on characterization plans, refine test setups and methodologies, support diagnostics for performance or reliability limits using physics-based root cause analysis.
• Innovation & Technical Leadership:
  Generate intellectual property, contribute to patents and publications, serve as subject matter expert, and mentor junior engineers (no direct reports).
• Experience and skills application:
  Proficiency with simulation tools (e.g., Photon Design, COMSOL, Lumerical) and data analysis software (MATLAB, Python, JMP); familiarity with DOE and Six Sigma concepts.

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in laser diode design and development;
  GaN/IIIV experience strongly preferred.
• Strong foundation in semiconductor laser physics, optical wave guides, and device modeling.
• Ability to bridge theory, simulation, fabrication, and test; hands-on experience with laser device characterization and data analysis (gain, waveguide loss, etc.).
• Proficiency with simulation tools (Photon Design, COMSOL, Lumerical or equivalent) and data analysis software (MATLAB, Python, JMP).
• Experience with DOE, SPC;
  Six Sigma familiarity is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; self-motivated, organized, and able to manage multiple technical work streams independently.

The full-time base salary range for the position is $157,000 to $185,000 per year. Salary is location-based and determined by skills, experience, and education.

Kyocera SLD Laser, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.