Optical Research Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Principal Product Development Engineer

Locations include Shakopee, MN, Catawba, NC, or Apex, NC.   However, candidates in other U.S. locations will be considered. 

Job Overview:

CommScope Data Center Business Unit is seeking a Prinicpal Product Development Engineer to spearhead the ideation and design of next-generation optical interconnect technology solutions for tomorrow’s most demanding high-speed, high-density platforms. 

As a key member of the Data Center organization, you will contribute to cutting-edge innovation in optical connectivity technologies that are expected to push the boundaries of density and performance. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams and engage with key stakeholders across Product Line Management, Business Development, Advanced Manufacturing, Operations, Sales, System Architecture, and other internal groups. Additionally, you will support the identification, evaluation, and cultivation of external partnerships with academic institutions, startups, and technology vendors.

Key qualifications include a proven track record of superior technical contributions in product development, deep expertise in optical connectivity, strong communication and collaboration skills, and a passion for innovation that drives breakthrough solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead conceptual design and development of innovative optical connectivity solutions focused in both the near-term and future generations.
• Drive design verification, refinement and development including structural modeling, tolerance analysis, and prototype testing.
• Establish development project goals and detailed specifications by working closely with Business Development, Product Line Management, Advanced Manufacturing, Procurement, Quality, and other stakeholders.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical tools and software; generate charts, graphs, technical reports and presentations for internal documentation.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies to support future product advancements.
• Generate IP patent portfolios for new technologies. 

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, or equivalent relevant work experience.
• Typically requires 12 years of related experience. Candidates with a master’s or PhD may be considered with fewer years of experience, depending on the relevance of their academic background to the role.
• Must have work experience with fiber optic connectivity or closely adjacent industry.
• Strong background in connector design, cable assembly design, or other relevant mechanical design and development including but not limited to material selection, tolerance analysis, DFMEA, verification testing, product qualification, etc.
• Development expertise with innovative latching and retention methods, strain relief of optical fibers, precision assembly and fiber alignment systems.
• Expertise in 3D CAD applications (Creo preferred) used in the concept design phase.
• Solid understanding of geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance analysis.
• Proficient user of finite element analysis software (Ansys, Workbench) for structural design.
• Ability to write design requirements for product or technology specifications.
• In depth knowledge in manufacturing processes (machining, molding, stamping, plating, assembly, etc.) with experience driving Design for Manufacturing (DfM), Design for Automation (DfA) and best practices.  
• Experienced in providing technical leadership for the full product development cycle, from establishing customer requirements to releasing qualified design to production.
• Solid understanding of competitive products and intellectual property positions.
• Fluent in English (both verbal and written) to facilitate global communication both internally and with external customers.
• Ability to work in a global environment – able to accommodate varying time zones and capable of collaborating with individuals across geographies.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with an ability to manage and execute multiple tasks/deadlines/projects simultaneously with limited direction.
• Outstanding problem solver – able to handle high complexity situations and use data analytics and critical thinking to reach logical conclusions with limited direction.
• Collaboration with a cross-functional team and external partners.
• Proficient using MS office software (Word, Excel, PPT, Outlook, MS Teams, etc).

Strongly Desired Skills & Qualifications:

• Understanding of blind-mate and backplane connection systems.
• Knowledge of co-packaged optics including opto-mechanical assembly, active alignment, passive alignment, pick and place, bonding processes, and dispensing technologies.   
• Optical modeling experience based on Marcuse theory, geometric or beam propagation methods.
• Familiarity with high-precision metrology and sub-micron inspection methods.
• Proficient use of quality tools such as FMEA, 6-sigma, DoE, 8D, statistical methods.
• Expertise in various rapid prototyping methodologies.
• Strong presentation skills to effectively engage with customers in ideation for new generation development.

• Experience contributing to and influencing Standards Committees such as IEC, TIA or IEEE and knowledge of test methods for optical connectivity.

• Comfortable leading technical discussions and performing technical training across project teams.
• Ability to mentor and coach fellow engineers, designers and technicians.

Travel Required: Less than 20%

Our salary ranges consider a wide variety of factors, including but not limited to benchmarking by independent third-party consultants, skill sets, years of experience, training, education, geography, and other business needs. Depending on experience, the range can be higher for candidates with exceptional experience and a demonstrated history of successful performance. The expected salary range for this position is $175,000-$210,000 based on hired level and experience. The candidate will be rewarded with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, life and accidental death insurance, a 401(k) plan, and participation in the Company’s Incentive Plan. Candidates starting with the Company will be eligible for eleven paid holidays in a full calendar year, two weeks of paid vacation (prorated based on start date), as well as other leave options.