Optical Engineer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Position Title: Mechanical Engineer (AI & Data Center Optical Modules)

Employment Type: Full-time, Existing vacancy

Location: San-Jose (On-Site)

About Lumentum

At Lumentum, we're building the tech behind the world's fastest networks and most advanced systems. Our optical and photonic solutions power everything from AI and cloud computing to data centers, telecom, and advanced manufacturing.

We're a global team of innovators working where light meets technology, solving big challenges that keep the world connected and moving forward. If shaping the future of connectivity excites you, you'll fit right in.

Why You'll Love This Role

We are seeking Mechanical Engineers to support the design and development of next-generation high-speed optical modules for AI and data center interconnect applications. This role focuses on advanced mechanical and thermal packaging solutions for high-density, high-power optical modules, including pluggable form factors and emerging advanced packaging architectures.

Engineers in this role will define and deliver mechanical package solutions from early concept and system architecture through prototyping, validation (EVT/DVT), and high-volume manufacturing ramp. The scope of responsibility will scale with experience. Senior engineers are expected to provide technical leadership, influence mechanical and thermal architecture decisions, and contribute to long-term platform and technology roadmap development.

This position plays a critical role in enabling scalable, cost-effective optical module platforms that meet the performance, power, and manufacturability demands of AI-driven data center systems.

What You'll Be Doing

• Design and develop mechanical packaging solutions for high-speed optical modules used in AI and data center interconnect systems
• Drive mechanical concepts from architecture definition through detailed design, prototype build, validation, and production ramp
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and engineering documentation
• Perform advanced thermal and mechanical stress analysis (FEA) to address high power density, airflow constraints, and long-term reliability
• Own GD&T definition and tolerance stack-up analysis for high-density opto-electro-mechanical assemblies
• Design fixtures, tooling, and test infrastructure to support optical alignment, module validation, and scalable manufacturing
• Collaborate closely with optical, electrical, thermal, reliability, manufacturing, and supply-chain teams to deliver integrated, system-aware solutions
• For senior-level engineers: provide technical direction, review designs, mentor junior engineers, and influence mechanical and thermal platform strategy

What We're Looking For

Education:
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline (M.S. or Ph.D. preferred)

Experience:
Core Requirements:

• Experience level flexible: typically 5+ years of relevant industry experience for senior-level consideration; motivated early-career engineers with strong fundamentals and relevant project experience are also encouraged to apply
• Prior experience developing optoelectronic or high-speed electronic products for data center, AI, or high-performance computing applications is highly valued
• Strong proficiency in mechanical design and thermal simulation tools such as SolidWorks, FloTHERM, or equivalent CAD/FEA platforms
• Deep understanding of thermal management, structural analysis, and high-density packaging design
• Experience with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis for complex assemblies
• Familiarity with high-density, non-hermetic optical module packaging and design for manufacturability (DFM/DFA)
• Working knowledge of data analysis tools (e.g., JMP) and basic scripting or programming (VB, C, MATLAB, etc.) to support testing and automation is a plus
• Ability to operate independently on complex technical problems while contributing effectively in a highly cross-functional environment.
• Self-motivated and adaptable in a fast-paced R&D and NPI environment
• Willingness to travel internationally (up to 25%) to manufacturing and contract manufacturing sites to drive NPI execution, manufacturing readiness, yield improvement, and high-volume production ramp

Perks You'll Love

• Flexible time off
• Health and wellness benefits (physical and mental)
• Tuition reimbursement and career growth support
• A workplace built for you: free gym, games room, prayer room
• Subsidized meals, free coffee/tea
• Employee stock options and incentive plans
• A collaborative, innovative, and inclusive culture

Join a Team That's Shaping the Future

At Lumentum, we're more than just a workplace-we're a launchpad for creativity and innovation. We're committed to celebrating your unique talents and helping you grow. Our guiding principles-Innovate, Engage, Deliver, Excel, and Win-aren't just words; they're the heart of what we do.

Let's Build a Brighter Future Together!

We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process. Your uniqueness makes us stronger, sparks creativity, and drives our success.

Please contact us at talentacquisition@lumentum.com to request accommodation.

Join us-your future starts here!

Pay Range:

Disclaimer:

Final base salary for the successful candidate will depend on multiple factors, including but not limited to, job location, where work will be performed, qualifications, work history and relevant experience. With our continual goal of making Lumentum a best place to work for our employees, we strive to offer employees competitive total compensation packages, which may include annual bonus, commission for certain sales roles, equity, and health and welfare benefits.