Lab Manager - R&D​/Product DVL Engineering

Job Overview

Manager - Lab Technician – Optical Testing & Validation, Digital Data Networks (DDN) Business Unit | TE Connectivity. Join TE Connectivity's world-class Passive Optics organization as the Manager for the Optical Testing Laboratory and play a crucial role in validating the next generation of optical connector systems powering AI and hyperscale computing infrastructure. The role executes sophisticated optical testing protocols, manages advanced test equipment, and ensures product quality through comprehensive environmental and optical characterization testing.

Optical Testing & Characterization

• Execute comprehensive optical tests including Insertion Loss, Return Loss, Optical Backscatter Reflectometer measurements, Polarization Extinction Ratio characterization, Beam Quality (M2) and Beam Pointing measurements.
• Perform detailed testing of fiber optic connectors and assemblies using industry-standard test methodologies and equipment.
• Analyze and interpret complex optical test results, identifying trends, anomalies, and performance characteristics.
• Create detailed test reports with statistical analysis and recommendations for engineering teams.

Environmental & Reliability Testing

• Execute Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) and Highly Accelerated Stress Screening (HASS) protocols for optical connector assemblies.
• Perform temperature cycling, humidity exposure, vibration, and mechanical stress testing per TIA and GIR industry standards.
• Ensure all testing procedures comply with TIA/EIA fiber optic standards and Generic Industry Requirements (GIR).
• Document and analyze test failures, providing technical input for root cause analysis and design improvements.

Laboratory Operations & Equipment Management

• Operate and maintain sophisticated optical test equipment including optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, OTDRs/OFDRs, imaging and beam characterization systems, and automated test systems.
• Execute calibration procedures and maintain calibration standards for all test equipment.
• Perform precision cleaning, inspection, and preparation of fiber optic connectors and test samples.
• Develop and maintain test scripts to automate data collection, reduce testing time, and improve measurement repeatability.

Data Analysis & Process Improvement

• Apply statistical methods to analyze test results, calculate process capability, and identify performance trends.
• Support development of new test procedures and validation of test methodologies.
• Continuously improve laboratory processes, test efficiency, and measurement accuracy.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to understand test requirements and provide technical testing expertise.

Essential Qualifications

• BS degree in Electronics Technology, Engineering Technology, or related field, or equivalent technical experience.
• Typical experience requirements: 10 years related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; 6 years and a Master’s degree; 3 years with a PhD; or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with TIA/EIA fiber optic standards and Generic Industry Requirements (GIR) for optical testing.
• Hands‑on experience with optical test equipment and fiber optic connector handling procedures.

Core Technical Competencies

• Proficiency with Insertion Loss, Return Loss, O , and PER measurement techniques and interpretation.
• Experience with HALT/HASS testing procedures and environmental test chamber operations.
• Skilled operation of optical power meters, spectrum analyzers, OTDRs, and automated test systems.
• Understanding of statistical methods for test data analysis and process control.

Specialized Knowledge Areas

• Measurement standards, calibration procedures, and traceability requirements.
• Fiber optic connector types, referencing, cleaning procedures, and handling best practices.
• Scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW) for test automation and data collection.
• Laboratory quality management and documentation procedures.

Professional Skills

• Meticulous attention to detail for testing procedures, data collection, and documentation.
• Systematic troubleshooting of test equipment issues and measurement anomalies.
• Clear communication of test procedures…