Senior Director of Robotics Optics Alignment

Overview

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Director of Robotics Optics Alignment. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self-starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth.

Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership
- Lead development of robotic systems for:

* Single-mode laser to single-mode fiber coupling

* Free-space collimation and beam shaping

* Mirror and micro-optic alignment (sub-micron / sub-µrad tolerances)
- Define alignment strategies (active vs. passive, closed-loop optimization, vision-based vs. power-based).
- Set standards for optical performance, stability, and manufacturability.

• Optic Attach & Permanent Fixation
- Own advanced optic attach processes, including:

- * UV-curable and thermally cured adhesives

* Solder and eutectic attach

* Laser welding / resistance welding
- Balance optical performance, thermal stability, reliability, and cycle time.
- Partner with reliability teams to ensure long-term alignment stability.

• Robotics & Automation Strategy
- Define automation roadmap from pilot tools to full high-volume manufacturing.
- Oversee system architecture including:

* Precision motion stages and robotics

* Vision systems and metrology

* Control software and optimization algorithms
- Drive equipment scalability, uptime, and cost reduction.

• High-Volume Manufacturing Enablement
- Translate R&D alignment techniques into robust, repeatable production processes.
- Lead yield improvement, cycle-time reduction, and process capability (Cp/Cpk).
- Support factory ramp, supplier engagement, and global manufacturing transfer.

• People & Organization
- Build and lead multidisciplinary teams across robotics, optics, controls, and manufacturing engineering.
- Mentor senior technical leaders and develop next-generation engineering talent.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product, reliability, quality, and supply chain teams.

Compliance:
This position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

Experience

• 12+ years in photonics, optics manufacturing, robotics, or precision automation.

• Proven experience aligning:
- Single-mode lasers
- Single-mode fiber coupling
- Collimation optics and mirrors

• Deep hands-on and leadership experience with advanced optic attach methods:
- UV adhesives
- Solder / eutectic bonding
- Welding techniques

• Demonstrated success deploying high-volume manufacturing automation.

Technical Expertise

• Optical alignment theory and practice (active alignment, tolerance analysis).

• Precision robotics, motion control, and metrology.

• Understanding of thermal, mechanical, and material interactions affecting optical stability.

• Familiarity with telecom, datacom, laser systems, or integrated photonics manufacturing.

Leadership

• Experience leading large technical teams and cross-functional initiatives.

• Ability to set technical vision while executing against aggressive production timelines.

• Strong communication skills across executive, engineering, and factory audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience scaling optical alignment automation from prototype to 100k units/month.

• Background in laser welding or hermetic packaging.

• Exposure to PIC-based or hybrid photonic assemblies.

• MS or PhD in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

Skills

• Proven record of building and leading engineering teams successfully executing multiple, parallel, complex process development engineering projects through development, qualification, fielding and maintenance cycle.

• Practical experience and industry recognition in the areas of photonics process development.

• Proficient with common industry equipment: wire-bonding, optical fiber processing equipment, die bonding, vacuum reflow oven soldering, adhesive dispense, pick and place, optics attach, laser welding, parallel seam sealing, etc.

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