Photonics Test Engineer; Bay Area

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!

This role focuses on architecting wafer and package‑level characterization and test strategies for Lightmatter’s silicon photonic products. The work directly shapes the design and advancement of our silicon photonics technology. You will join a fast‑growing, interdisciplinary team with ample opportunities to learn, collaborate, and make a meaningful impact.

• Work directly with the architecture and design teams to understand the technology and conceptualize characterization techniques targeting feedback for model validation.
• Architect test concepts, test platforms, and design for test rules, provide feedback early on during the technology concept phase.
• Create detailed test plan documentation and ensure timely execution.
• Define, develop, and set up wafer and package 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.
• Set up and operate a range of optical equipment such as tunable lasers, power meters, O /OVA, and optical switches.
• Engage with silicon and platform validation teams and bridge any gaps between the test and validation teams.
• Help enable reliability teams for pre and post‑stress test needs.
• Keep up to date with the latest developments in silicon photonics technology and testability.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 5+ years of proven experience in silicon photonics test development including wafer‑level test experience.
• Understanding of photonic integrated components and circuits.
• Hands‑on lab experience in optoelectronics testing and characterization of photonics chips, components, and devices.
• Experience working with design teams to define test cells for model feedback and validation.
• Experience working with industry‑standard photonics test equipment.
• Experience in Python for test automation.
• 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.

• Ph.D. in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Experience with semiconductor lasers is a plus.

We offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role is determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data.

Salary Range: $188,000 – $257,000 USD. Total compensation includes a new‑hire equity grant, annual performance‑based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.

• 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
• 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.