Principal Optical Communications Engineer

Principal Optical Communications Engineer What You’ll Do

• Provide technical leadership in the architecture, design, and optimization of optical interfaces and subsystems for Calix Optical Access Networks.
• Own system‑level optical performance, including link budgets, noise analysis, dispersion, margins, and interoperability across access network architectures.
• Lead cross‑functional efforts spanning silicon vendors, module suppliers, hardware, firmware, and systems teams to deliver robust fiber broadband solutions.
• Define and review optical specifications, validation plans, and acceptance criteria for transceivers and optical subsystems.
• Drive hands‑on lab investigations, including root‑cause analysis of complex optical and system‑level issues.
• Lead technology transitions by actively representing the company within FSAN, ITU‑T, and IEEE, shaping standards evolution through a combination of deep system‑level insight and ongoing hands‑on laboratory investigation, ensuring standards positions are grounded in real‑world performance, robustness, and thought leadership.
• Mentor and influence engineers, raising the technical bar across the optics, hardware and software teams.

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of professional experience in optical communications system design and development.
• Deep understanding of optical link design, including lasers, modulators, photodiodes, TIAs, dispersion, noise, and thermal effects.
• Proven experience with high‑speed optical systems spanning 10G through 400G, including familiarity with IEEE 802.3 and access‑network standards, FSAN and Cable Labs.
• Strong background in lab characterization and system validation, including optical data transmission, eye/constellation analysis, and optical network systems interoperability.
• Experience working directly with optical module vendors and silicon partners to drive requirements and resolve issues.
• Ability to translate complex optical behavior into clear system‑level tradeoffs and recommendations.

• Experience with Coherent and/or Direct‑Detect access technologies (PON, Metro/DWDM Transport, WDM broadband access).
• Familiarity with optical modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, VPI, Python‑based analysis).
• Background in ROADM, WDM systems, or silicon photonics.
• Track record of technical leadership, authorship of specifications, or contribution to standards bodies.

This is an on‑site position in Plymouth, MN.

Base pay ranges vary by location. Specific information will be shared during recruitment. Eligible for bonus. Full benefits package available.

Calix is a Drug Free Workplace.

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