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Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Characterization & Reliability Strategy * Define characterization and reliability evaluation ... Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps. * Identify capability ...

LLNL

Senior Semiconductor Laser Device Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division of the Engineering ... Expert knowledge of and experience with characterization of compound semiconductor optoelectronic ...

QCi

Test Engineer,Hardware- Photonics

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

... characterization, and product reliability. This is a highly cross-functional role requiring the ... Develop and implement testbeds to evaluate the performance of optoelectronic chips, components, and ...

QCi

... characterization, and product reliability. This is a highly cross-functional role requiring the ... Develop and implement testbeds to evaluate the performance of optoelectronic chips, components, and ...

Glint Tech Solutions LLC

Support material characterization and troubleshoot MOCVD process/equipment issues * Improve ... Experience with semiconductor lasers, photonics, or optoelectronic devices * Experience with InP ...

Posted today

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Characterization & Reliability Strategy * Define characterization and reliability evaluation ... Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps. * Identify capability ...

Mojo Vision

$141K - $161K/yr

Mojo Vision is seeking a hands-on Optical Test Engineer to support the characterization, qualification, and production release of advanced optoelectronic devices. This role is responsible for ...

Mojo Vision

Optical Test Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$141K - $161K/yr

Mojo Vision is seeking a hands-on Optical Test Engineer to support the characterization, qualification, and production release of advanced optoelectronic devices. This role is responsible for ...

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Characterization & Reliability Strategy * Define characterization and reliability evaluation ... Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps. * Identify capability ...

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Characterization & Reliability Strategy * Define characterization and reliability evaluation ... Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps. * Identify capability ...

Nokia

Staff PIC RF Test Development Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

Hands-on experience with high-speed optoelectronic device characterization techniques (e.g. >50GHz ... Programming experience in Matlab, C, C++, Python, VB.net or similar for automation of instrument ...

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Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer information

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How much do optoelectronics characterization engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optoelectronics characterization engineer in the United States is $107,956.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optoelectronics characterization engineer?

Optoelectronics Characterization Engineers are professionals who specialize in testing and analyzing the properties and performance of optoelectronic devices, such as LEDs, lasers, photodetectors, and solar cells. They use advanced measurement techniques and equipment to evaluate parameters like optical output, efficiency, wavelength, and response time. Their work ensures that devices meet design specifications and quality standards, and they often collaborate closely with design, fabrication, and quality assurance teams. These engineers play a critical role in the development of new photonic technologies used in communications, sensing, and imaging.

What are the primary challenges faced by an optoelectronics characterization engineer when working with new device prototypes?

One of the main challenges Optoelectronics Characterization Engineers encounter is ensuring accurate and repeatable measurements when characterizing novel or experimental devices. Prototypes often exhibit unexpected behaviors, requiring engineers to adapt test protocols and troubleshoot complex issues, such as signal noise or thermal instability. Additionally, collaboration with design and fabrication teams is crucial to interpret results effectively and provide feedback for iterative improvements. Staying updated with evolving measurement technologies and standards also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optoelectronics characterization engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science, typically with a relevant degree and experience in semiconductor device testing. Familiarity with optical and electrical measurement equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and cleanroom protocols is essential. Strong analytical thinking, detail orientation, and effective communication skills help in troubleshooting and presenting complex data. These capabilities ensure accurate device characterization, drive innovation, and maintain quality in the development of advanced optoelectronic technologies.

What is the difference between Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer vs Photonics Test Engineer?

AspectOptoelectronics Characterization EngineerPhotonics Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsTesting labs, production lines, R&D teams
Industry UsageOptoelectronics, semiconductor, telecommunicationsPhotonics, laser systems, optical communications

Optoelectronics Characterization Engineers and Photonics Test Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, the former focuses on detailed characterization of optoelectronic devices, while the latter emphasizes testing and validation of photonic systems. Both roles are vital in advancing optical technologies but differ in their specific focus areas.

What are popular job titles related to Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer jobs?

For Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optoelectronics Characterization Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,956 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Optical Systems Engineer

Redmond, WA

Lumotive
Semiconductor and Electronic Component Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Lumotiveexternal

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Lumotive is pioneering the era of programmable optics—where light is controlled as intelligently and flexibly as software.
 
At the heart of this transformation is a once-in-a-generation innovation: a flat CMOS-based “general purpose optic.” Lumotive’s Light Control Metasurface (LCM™) beam forming chips can be programmed to function as a beam steering mirror, a lens, mirror, a beam splitter—or any optical function—replacing bulky and mechanical optical components with a fully digital, reconfigurable semiconductor . This breakthrough lays the foundation for a massive shift in multiple technologies—from 3D sensing and imaging to optical networking, free space optical communication, and beyond. Like the shift from analog to digital in electronics, programmable optics will reshape industries from robotics, self-driving cars, AI, defense, and healthcare.

Lumotive’s first commercial application is in LiDAR, where its software-defined beam steering chips are already enabling compact, high-performance, solid-state sensors. These sensors are being deployed today in smart infrastructure, robotics, and mobility systems through leading module makers and solution integrators.

With more than 200 patents and growing commercial traction, Lumotive is delivering the world’s first digital platform for light—and redefining what’s possible in the optical age.

Job Description:

The Optical Systems Engineer plays a key role in a start-up environment developing the next generation of LiDAR. This hands-on role blends developing knowledge of optics, electronics, and software – expect to build, test, debug, and refine real hardware in the lab. You'll work within established architecture, technical direction, and defined procedures, exercising good judgment to determine appropriate action on problems of moderate scope, and building productive working relationships across internal teams. You'll receive general instructions on routine work and detailed instructions on new projects or assignments. This position reports to the Senior Manager of Optical Systems Engineering.

Responsibilities:
  • Support the implementation of LCM-based lidar system and transmitter designs within established architecture and technical direction, contributing to the build and test of our reference designs, including debug, customization, and system-level optimization, in collaboration with hardware, optics, firmware, and software teams.
  • Build test stations and fixtures for system-level test, assembly, and calibration, supporting bring-up through production, following established designs and procedures.
  • Execute system-level test campaigns to characterize and validate lidar performance across development and production builds.
  • Build and maintain Python-based automation and measurement tools for characterization and calibration of system and optoelectronic components (lasers, detectors).
  • Debug systems and transmitters — including electronics, optics, and embedded processing and control algorithms — to isolate and resolve performance and integration issues.
  • Participate in hardware and system design reviews, providing input on system integration, testability, and robustness for LCM-based lidar systems.
  • Report on system performance and test results, presenting data, methods, and conclusions clearly to the internal technical team.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field plus a minimum of 2+ years of relevant work experience required. 
  • Advanced degree preferred. 
  • Working experience in optoelectronic or photonic systems integration and debug required.
  • Python skills for automation, control, and data analysis.
  • Familiarity with Git, Unix environments, and embedded systems.
  • Exposure to system integration, optoelectronics, and cross-domain debugging.
  • Exposure to designing or building test, assembly, or calibration stations, including fixture design and test automation.
  • Working familiarity with lasers, photodetectors, and optoelectronic component characterization.
  • Experience with lidar systems preferred; radar or ultrasound experience is also acceptable.
  • Ability to apply established calibration, optimization, and signal-processing approaches following defined procedures.
  • Good communication skills; comfortable building working relationships across teams.
Benefits include but not limited to:

Health, dental and vision
FSA, HSA
PTO plus 14 paid company holidays
401K with 3% contribution
Stock Options
Life insurance and disability
Lumotive logo

About Lumotive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Redmond, WA, US

Year founded

2018

Social media

Twitter

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