Principal Optical Engineer – AI Infrastructure

Job Description

Supports the design, deployment, and operations of a large-scale global Oracle cloud computing environment (Oracle Cloud Infrastructure – OCI). Primarily focused on development and support of AI cluster network fabric and GPU compute server systems through a combination of a deep level understanding of optical networking at the protocol and hardware level coupled with programming skills to support the intensive automation required to operate a production environment.

As OCI is a cloud-based network with a global footprint, this support will include hundreds of thousands of network devices and GPUs with high-speed optical links supporting millions of servers, connected over a mix of dedicated back end and front-end network infrastructure, backbone and the Internet.

• Provide technical leadership to engineering teams in the development, deployment and validation of high-speed optical transceivers (short reach to long haul), fiber optic components, passive optical components and fiber assemblies.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of system requirements and translate them into detailed design specifications.
• Perform simulations and modeling to optimize transceiver performance and system integration.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, test engineering, manufacturing) to ensure deployment success.
• Coordinate with qualification teams and develop and execute comprehensive test plans to evaluate link performance and reliability for high availability of AI clusters and maximize workload performance.
• Conduct failure analysis, root cause engineering investigations and remediations/fixes with vendors and internal teams for production issues (HW/SW/FW).
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in optical technology, industry trends, and emerging standards (IEEE, OIF, and industry MSAs). Participate in industry forums.
• Support source selection and vendor due diligence by providing technical expertise.
• Contribute to roadmap development for next generation interconnects.

• Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in the design, development, testing and installation of optical transceivers, fiber optic components, and passive optical components.
• Understanding of cloud infrastructure, server and switch platforms.
• Deep understanding of optical communication principles, including modulation formats, fiber optics, lasers, optical receivers, and link budgets.
• Proficiency in optical simulation and modeling tools (e.g., Opti System, RSoft, VPI).
• Extensive experience with optical test and measurement equipment and methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of industry standards (IEEE, OIF, industry MSAs) and their impact on product development.
• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Experience with high‑speed optical interconnect technologies (100G, 400G, 800G, etc.).
• Knowledge of transceiver design, optical packaging, assembly processes, lasers and failure modes.
• Track record of successful product development and commercialization.

Disclaimer:

Certain US customer or client-facing roles may be required to comply with applicable requirements, such as immunization and occupational health mandates.

Range and benefit information provided in this posting are specific to the stated locations only.

US:
Hiring Range in USD from: $96,800 to $223,400 per annum. May be eligible for bonus and equity.

Oracle maintains broad salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions and locations, as well as reflect Oracle’s differing products, industries and lines of business.

Candidates are typically placed into the range based on the preceding factors as well as internal peer equity.

Oracle US offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following: