Optical Network Engineer

About The Team

OpenAI’s Hardware organization develops silicon and system-level solutions designed for the unique demands of advanced AI workloads. The team is responsible for building the next generation of AI-native silicon while working closely with software and research partners to co-design hardware tightly integrated with AI models. In addition to delivering production-grade silicon for OpenAI’s supercomputing infrastructure, the team also creates custom design tools and methodologies that accelerate innovation and enable hardware optimized specifically for AI.

We are seeking an experienced Optical Network Engineer to lead Laser related work within our optical interconnect efforts for large-scale compute systems. The role also requires broad, hands‑on optical validation experience across IM/DD-based interconnects, working from lab characterization through production readiness and scaled deployment.

• Drive laser-focused requirements and technical direction within the broader optical interconnect roadmap.
• Lead evaluation and validation of optical components and subsystems, including laser-based elements, in lab and production-representative environments.
• Support end-to-end optical testing for IM/DD interconnects (e.g., module/system bring‑up, characterization, debug, and readiness for scale).
• Work with external partners to align on development milestones, performance targets, and quality expectations.
• Own technical issue triage and resolution across performance, reliability, and manufacturability topics.
• Collaborate across internal teams to support integration, rollout, and operational success at scale.

• Strong experience in laser-focused optical engineering (development, validation, manufacturing readiness, or field support).
• Broad hands‑on background with IM/DD optical technologies and optical test/debug workflows.
• Experience working with external suppliers/manufacturing partners and production-oriented execution.
• Demonstrated ability to debug complex technical issues using data‑driven methods.
• Clear written and verbal communication; ability to influence cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field preferred (or equivalent industry experience).

To comply with U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidates for this role may need to meet certain legal status requirements as provided in those laws and regulations.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other applicable legally protected characteristic.

Compensation Range: $342K - $445K