Lead Design Engineer

Location: Fremont, CA, United States

About Indium Phosphide (InP) Technology
The world’s communications infrastructure depends on semiconductor lasers, and particularly those based on indium phosphide technology. Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance transmission through fiber optics. In short, they enable the optical networks that form the global internet.

Coherent’s broad portfolio of InP components includes application-specific Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated lasers (DMLs), and tunable lasers. It also includes photodiodes for high-speed receivers and power monitoring. In 2022, we introduced 200 Gbps indium phosphide electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs) for high-speed datacenter transceivers. This design provides our customers with the most advanced, robust, and cost-competitive laser devices for their 800G and next-gen 1.6T datacom transceiver designs. 

Our world-class and highly reliable InP technology platform is one of the very few in the industry that has been proven, with more than one hundred million lasers in the field deployed over the last decades.

We are seeking a Lead Engineer to drive the design and development of high-power InP-based semiconductor lasers for high-speed data communication applications. This role requires technical leadership, hands-on device development, and cross-functional coordination across internal teams and external partners. This role is an opportunity to be at the forefront of high-power laser innovation in a fast-paced, results-driven environment. If you thrive on hands-on development, technical challenges, and collaborative problem-solving, we encourage you to apply.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and execution of InP-based semiconductor lasers for high-speed data communication applications.
• Comprehensive hands-on ownership of all aspects of laser design, including grating, epitaxy, and coating.
• Device simulation to identify key design variables and set targets for optimal performance and yield.
• Formulation and execution of wafer fabrication launch.
• Design of test protocols and techniques to provide effective design feedback.
• Technical coordination of internal and external teams, including epitaxy, semiconductor wafer fabrication, assembly, and test.
• Program management, tracking schedule and milestones to ensure timely execution.
• Customer interaction, translating customer requirements into laser specifications.
• Direct engagement with external vendors, handling both technical and business aspects.

Education & Experience

• MSEE in Electrical Engineering or Physics (PhD preferred).
• 3–5 years of relevant industry experience.

Skills

• Strong understanding of semiconductor physics, particularly laser physics and operating characteristics.
• Experience with device simulation is a plus.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor device fabrication processes, with hands-on experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience with device characterization techniques, including both electrical and optical measurements.
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills, including statistical tools, data analysis, and presentation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of managing complex teams in a collaborative environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, including documentation.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, on-site position.
• Occasional travel required.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or in meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
•  Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

Safety Requirements

 

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About Us

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!

Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.


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