Optical Test Engineer, Principal

Astera Labs
San Jose, CA
Category Engineering
Job Description
Role Overview

We are seeking a world-class Senior Staff to Principal Optical Test Engineer to lead the development and execution of advanced test strategies for Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) solutions. This senior role drives optical and electro-optical testing for next-generation high-bandwidth CPO modules and optical engines integrated with ASICs for AI, hyperscale data centers, and high-performance computing.

What You Will Do

Lead the definition, development, and qualification of comprehensive test solutions for CPO optical engines, including wafer-level, die-level, package-level, and system-level testing. Design and implement optical test hardware and automation systems, develop test programs and methodologies, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Why It Might Be a Fit

This is a high-impact technical leadership position at the forefront of silicon photonics and co-packaged optics innovation. You will have opportunities to drive yield improvement, failure analysis, and root-cause investigations, and establish correlations between bench/lab validation, ATE production test, and system-level performance.

Requirements

  • MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
  • 8+ years (Senior Staff) to 12+ years (Principal) of relevant experience in optical/photonic test engineering
  • Strong background in Co-Packaged Optics (CPO), silicon photonics, or high-speed optical transceivers (800G/1.6T+)
  • Proven track record developing optical test solutions for wafer, package, or module-level testing in high-volume environments
  • Deep expertise in optical test instrumentation (e.g., optical spectrum analyzers, BER testers, oscilloscopes, tunable lasers, power meters, fiber alignment systems)
  • Experience with automated test equipment (ATE), Python/LabVIEW/C# test development, and statistical process control (SPC)
  • Knowledge of PAM4 signaling, signal integrity, mixed-signal testing, and reliability standards for data center optics

Benefits

  • Discretionary bonus
  • Incentives
  • Benefits
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