Engineer Staff, Optical Test
Lumentum • San Jose, California, United States
Role & seniority: Senior/Staff Optical Validation Engineer responsible for validating next-gen optical transceivers from architecture to product release.
Stack/tools: Python-based test automation; EVT/DVT strategy; mixed-domain test integration (optical, electrical, thermal, mechanical); experience with OSA, BERT, DCA, oscilloscope, VNA, ONT; familiarity with IEEE 802.3, MSAs, CMIS.
Top 3 responsibilities
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Own and shape validation strategy from early architecture through release.
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Lead EVT/DVT planning and execution, de-risk designs and accelerate time to market.
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Architect scalable, high-fidelity test solutions and robust data pipelines; perform DOE and data-driven design guidance.
Must-have skills
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Deep technical expertise with optical/electrical test equipment and measurement judgment.
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Proven Python-based test automation and scalable data pipelines; data integrity focus.
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Systems-level mindset; strong problem solving in evolving requirements; ability to translate data into actionable decisions.
Nice-to-haves
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Subject-matter expertise in industry standards and future-proofing validation approaches.
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Cross-functional influence, mentorship, and ability to raise technical bar while delivering results.
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Location & work type: Location and work type not specified.
Full Description
What You’ll Do
Own and shape the validation strategy for next-generation optical transceivers from early architecture through product release. Lead engineering and design validation (EVT/DVT) strategy for advanced optical modules, partnering closely with design, systems, and architecture teams to de-risk designs early and accelerate time to market. Architect and drive the development of scalable, high-fidelity test solutions—integrating optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical considerations to enable accurate and repeatable characterization. Define and implement robust Python-based automation frameworks to enable complex test flows, high-volume data collection, and rapid insight generation. Serve as a technical authority for data analysis and interpretation, translating complex results into clear, actionable guidance that influences design decisions and product direction. Design and execute statistically sound Design of Experiments (DOE) to enable deep component characterization, root-cause isolation, and performance optimization. Act as a subject-matter expert on industry standards (IEEE 802.3, MSAs, CMIS), ensuring validation approaches both meet compliance requirements and anticipate future needs.
What You Bring
Deep technical expertise, paired with the ability to lead through influence. Strong hands-on experience with optical and electrical test equipment (OSA, BERT, DCA, oscilloscope, ONT, VNA, etc.), with the judgment to choose the right measurement approach—not just run tests. Proven experience building test automation and data pipelines using Python (or equivalent), with an emphasis on scalability, maintainability, and data integrity. Solid understanding of optical transceiver architectures, performance tradeoffs, and relevant datacom standards. A systems-level mindset and strong problem-solving skills, comfortable operating in ambiguous problem spaces where requirements are still evolving. The ability to synthesize complex data into clear narratives that influence cross-functional teams and drive better technical decisions. A collaborative, mentorship-oriented approach—raising the technical bar of the team while delivering results.
