Principal Laser Controls EngineerRole OverviewWe are seeking a Principal Laser Controls Engineer to define and drive the control architecture for advanced laser-based optical modules. This role demands deep expertise in laser physics, control systems, and embedded implementation. You will own the technical vision for laser control-spanning optical power regulation, current control, thermal stabilization, and wavelength calibration-ensuring robust, scalable, and production-ready solutions across the full product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities- Define and own the end-to-end laser module control architecture, including:
- APC (Automatic Power Control) loops for stable optical output
- ACC (Automatic Current Control) strategies for laser drive optimization
- Automatic calibration frameworks (power, current, aging compensation, temperature drift)
- TEC (Thermoelectric Cooler) control for wavelength and thermal stability
- Lead the design, modeling, and optimization of laser control loops, accounting for:
- Laser non-linearities (L-I curves, threshold behavior)
- Aging, degradation, and environmental variations
- Noise, stability margins, and transient performance
- Architect closed-loop control strategies that balance performance, reliability, and manufacturability across PVT and lifetime conditions
- Develop and own module embedded laser control firmware, including:
- Real-time control loops
- Calibration routines (factory + in-field)
- Fault detection, protection, and recovery mechanisms
- Establish modeling and correlation frameworks linking simulation to silicon and optical performance
Qualifications- MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Controls, or related field
- ~12-15+ years of experience with deep focus on laser systems and control
- Strong expertise in:
- APC/ACC loop design and optimization
- Laser behavior (L-I-V characteristics, thermal effects, degradation mechanisms)
- Feedback control theory and real-world implementation
- Proven experience implementing calibration algorithms (factory and adaptive/in-field)
- Strong embedded firmware background for real-time control systems
- Proficiency in modeling and simulation (MATLAB/Python/Simulink or equivalent), with demonstrated correlation to hardware
- Track record of driving system-level architecture and influencing cross-functional teams
Nice to Have- Experience with pluggable optical modules and CMIS
- Familiarity with high-speed optical links, SerDes
- Experience with reliability engineering (lifetime drift, burn-in, field performance)
- Exposure to high-volume manufacturing, yield optimization, and test infrastructure
Why Join Us- Define the control and calibration backbone of next-generation laser products
- High ownership across laser physics, control algorithms, and system integration
- Opportunity to shape product direction in a fast-paced, execution-driven environment
