Staff Photonics Test Engineer

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Mountain View, CAPosted Today

Role Overview

Lightmatter is hiring a Staff Photonics Test Engineer. This is a full-time role in Mountain View. Part of Lightmatter's Qa hiring, posted today. applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

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Job description

Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world’s first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™, capable of connecting thousands to millions of processors at the speed of light in extreme-scale data centers for the most advanced AI and HPC workloads.

Lightmatter raised $400 million in its Series D round, reaching a valuation of $4.4 billion. We will continue to accelerate the development of data center photonics and grow every department at Lightmatter!

If you're passionate about tackling complex challenges, making an impact, and being an expert in your craft, join our team of brilliant scientists, engineers, and accomplished industry leaders.

Lightmatter is (re)inventing the future of computing with light!

About this Role

You will be focused on architecting wafer, package and system level characterization and test strategies of Lightmatter’s novel Silicon Photonic product line. As part of this role you will have the ability to directly influence the design and development of Lightmatter silicon photonics technologies. You will be part of a growing interdisciplinary team with a lot of opportunities to learn and make a big impact.

Responsibilities

Work directly with the architecture and design teams to understand the technology and conceptualize characterization and test techniques targeting feedback for design model validations.
Architect test concepts, test platforms, design for test rules, and provide feedback early on during the technology concept phase.
Create detailed test plan documentation and ensure timely execution.
Define, develop, and setup of wafer, package and system level tests for Lightmatter silicon photonics products.
Develop test software to enable test execution, data analysis, and parameter extraction.
Work with vendors to specify and procure test equipment.
Setup and operate a range of optical equipment such as tunable lasers, power meters, polarization synthesizer, OBR/OVA, and high-speed test equipment.
Engage with silicon and platform validation teams and bridge any gaps between test and validation teams.
Work with OSAT teams to define, validate, and refine test techniques for high volume manufacturing.
Work with the reliability team for pre and post-stress test needs.
Keep up to date with the latest developments in Silicon Photonics technology and testability.

Requirements:

Master’s in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field
A minimum of 8+ years of proven experience in silicon photonics test development
Proven industrial experience in supporting new product introduction and volume production
Deep understanding of Silicon Photonics components and circuits
Experience working with design teams to define test cells for model feedback and validation
Hands on experience in characterization and test of photonics components and circuits
3+ years of direct experience in high-speed photonic device test, system link bring-up, and familiar with test equipment such as AWG, DCA, DSO, PNA, LCA
Experience in test system automation using Python
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and solve issues during the testing process
Ability to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications:

PhD in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field
2+ years of photonic component or circuit design experience is highly preferred

This role is open to multiple levels. Education, years of experience, and interview performance will be the determining factor for leveling.

Staff: $187,000 - $220,000

Sr Staff: $215,000 - $260,000

We offer competitive compensation. The base salary range for this role determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data.

Salary Range: total compensation goes beyond base salary, it also includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.

$187,000—$260,000 USD

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
Retirement Savings Matching Program
Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
Paid Family Leave
Short Term & Long Term Disability
Training & Development
Commuter Benefits
Flexible, hybrid workplace model
Equity grants (applicable to full-time employees)

Benefits eligibility may vary depending on your employment status and location. Lightmatter recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

Export Control

Candidates should have capacity to comply with the federally mandated requirements of U.S. export control laws.

About Lightmatter

Lightmatter

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54 other open roles at Lightmatter on TryApplyNow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Staff Photonics Test Engineer position at Lightmatter?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Lightmatter. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Staff Photonics Test Engineer position at Lightmatter located?

This position is based in Mountain View. Lightmatter has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Staff Photonics Test Engineer at Lightmatter earn?

Lightmatter has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Staff Photonics Test Engineer role at Lightmatter posted?

This role was posted on July 9, 2026 (today). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.

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