Role & seniority: Photonics Test Development Engineer (seniority not specified)

Stack / tools: Optical alignment systems; Silicon Photonics PICs; lasers and detectors; test platforms and burn-in stations; motion stages; test fixtures; Python for instrument control and automation; GR&R; SolidWorks (nice-to-have)

Top 3 responsibilities

Design, develop, and qualify test platforms for internal validation and manufacturing deployment
Develop and optimize alignment routines for lenses and optical components in core sensing modules
Collaborate with external vendors to evaluate, specify, and procure photonics test platforms; design fixtures and integrate with motion stages; perform system integration and qualification tests

Must-have skills

MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Experience with optical alignment systems
Experience in Silicon Photonics R&D, laser development, or related photonics product development
Strong Python programming for instrument control and station automation

Nice-to-haves

SolidWorks experience for designing test fixtures, motion-system interfaces, DUT sockets, and thermal management
Location & work type: Location not specified; work type not stated (presumably full-time)

Full Description

About us

Aeva’s mission is to bring the next wave of perception to a broad range of applications from automated driving to industrial robotics, consumer electronics, consumer health, security, and beyond. Aeva is transforming autonomy with its groundbreaking sensing and perception technology that integrates all key LiDAR components onto a silicon photonics chip in a compact module. Aeva 4D LiDAR sensors uniquely detect instant velocity in addition to 3D position, allowing autonomous devices like vehicles and robots to make more intelligent and safe decisions.

Role Overview

We are looking for a Photonics test development engineer to join our test development team!

What you'll be doing

Responsible for design, development, and qualification of test platforms used for internal validation and deployment in our manufacturing line.
Develop and optimize alignment routines for lens and other optical components used in our integrated core sensing optical module.
Work with external vendors to evaluate, specify, and procure advanced test platforms and burnin stations for photonics components such as lasers, detectors, and Silicon Photonics based Photonic integrated circuits (PIC)
Design test fixtures and integrate with motion stages for custom PIC, laser, and subassembly test platforms.
Perform system integration of instruments and optics for photonic test systems
Run test system debug and GR&R tests for system qualification
Prepare and maintain detailed design documents and BOM for test systems

What you'll have

MS or Ph.D. in Optical engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline
Experience with optical alignment systems
Experience in Silicon Photonics R&D, laser development, or related photonics product development
Strong experience in Python coding for instrument control and station automation

Nice to have

Experience with SolidWorks for designing test fixtures for motion system integration, DUT socketing mechanical design and DUT thermal management

What's in it for you

Be part of an early start-up that's backed by industry-leading venture capitalists
Very competitive compensation and meaningful equity!

Exceptional benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and more! 401k matching

Unlimited PTO: We care about results, not punching timecards Paid lunches, ping pong tournaments, and fun team off-sites!