Optical Packaging Engineer

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! Job Summary We are seeking an Optical Packaging Engineer to lead the development of next-generation connectivity solutions. In this role, you will be the bridge between chip design and high-volume manufacturing, driving the optical architecture for Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) coupling. You will take ownership of the entire lifecycle from designing custom lenses and detachable Fiber Array Unit (FAU) connectors to managing global OSAT partners for mass production. If you thrive at the intersection of precision simulation and real-world scalability, this is the role for you. Responsibilities Lead the optical design for PIC-to-PIC and PIC-to-FAU coupling. Design and optimize critical components including Micro-Lens Arrays (MLAs), FAU arrays, and detachable connectors. Collaborate on PIC layouts to ensure the chip architecture is optimized for high-efficiency coupling and alignment tolerances. Drive the strategy for sub-micron precision alignment both in internal R&D lab and at scale with OSAT partners. Establish workflow for Structural, Thermal, and Optical (STOP) analysis. Use these multi-physics insights to predict performance shifts across operating temperatures and mechanical stresses. Develop and validate novel optical isolator integration approaches to protect laser sources from back-reflection in high-density PIC environments. Lead technical collaboration with OSATs from initial prototyping through validation and into high-volume production (HVM). Provide expert guidance on assembly processes to improve throughput, reduce coupling loss, and minimize per-unit costs. Partner with electrical, mechanical, and systems teams to ensure seamless product integration and timely delivery of complex modules. Distill complex technical findings into clear design concepts and status updates for executive stakeholders and partners. Required Qualifications BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. 8-10+ years of hands-on experience in optical or opto-mechanical design, specifically within the photonics or semiconductor industries. Proven track record in the design of micro-lenses and FAU arrays in Zemax for PIC-to-PIC and PIC-to-FAU coupling. Hands-on experience with optical alignment and hardware validation. Demonstrated experience managing OSATs and suppliers through the full product lifecycle (NPI to high-volume). Preferred Qualifications PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Familiarity in Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or similar tools for wave-guide level simulation. Hands-on experience with SolidWorks for mechanical integration and connector design. Experience with using FEA tools for STOP analysis. Expertise in Datacom optical modules and emerging silicon photonics standards. 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. $227,000—$262,000 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.