Photonics Integration Engineer and Technical Lead

Job Overview

Advantest America, a leading Semiconductor Test and Measurement Company, seeks innovative and self-driven individuals to join our US Research & Venture Team. This team is part of a global initiative to integrate advances in electrical, photonic, thermal, software, and AI/Machine Learning technologies into our test and measurement solutions across the semiconductor value chain.

We are looking for a highly experienced Photonics Engineer to join our optical test integration team. This role involves developing co-packaged optical test systems integrated into our semiconductor testing systems. As the Optical Integration Engineering Lead on the Research & Venture Team, you will work collaboratively with Advantest Technology groups, Business Units, partners, and suppliers to specify components and systems that address signal integrity and reliability concerns. The development activities include working with the overall handler and tester teams as well as customers and the Account Team to specify the components used in the signal path (based on customer's test needs), ensuring the system designs address concerns related to signal integrity and reliability over time, and laser safety. The engineer will also develop the optical system validation strategy, develop needed test vehicles/optical device simulators, and complete the testing/validation/characterization of the integrated optical test hardware. The engineer must be comfortable with hands-on work, and the instrumentation required to complete the testing activities as well as compiling the test reports.

Your responsibilities will include conducting feasibility studies, developing engineering prototypes and testing new and modified designs. You will be assigned independent mechanical design projects, allowing for innovation and technical leadership. You will be involved in product development teams, providing direction and training to junior staff and contractors. Additionally, you may address field issues and provide guidance to field teams.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Develop optical signal path for CPO (co-packaged optical) test systems integrated into semiconductor testing systems.
• Work with the handler and tester teams, as well as customers, to specify optical signal path components and ensure Optical Signal Integrity of the system.
• Ensure that optical system designs address signal integrity, reliability, and laser safety.
• Develop and implement optical system validation strategies, including test vehicles and optical device simulators.
• Conduct the testing, validation, and characterization of integrated optical test hardware.
• Align optical systems, cables, connectors, and probes, considering mechanical aspects affecting optical signal integrity.
• Lead optical signal path design and signal integrity analysis.
• Oversee system integration into mechatronic systems and scale prototypes to high-volume manufacturing.
• Devise test strategies, design test vehicles, operate optical test equipment, and generate test reports.
• Collaborate with foundries for wafer and packaged device creation when necessary.
• Participate in product development teams, providing direction and training to junior staff and contractors.
• Participate in the preparation of patent applications and memos of invention for trade secrets.
• Act as a customer contact on selective technical matters and analyze customer requirements.
• Identify risk areas and optimization opportunities.
• Take on project ownership and management; determine technology requirements and develop strategies.
• Drive design completion, provide design inputs, and work closely with external technology partners on projects.
• Create test plans, procure necessary collaterals, and oversee test execution.
• Maintain project schedules, including keeping the Gantt chart current and ensuring effective handoffs to Applications, Design, and Manufacturing.
• Conduct top-level tolerance analysis and function as an expert consultant when needed.
• May be assigned independent design projects and all other duties and tasks as required.