Principal Engineer, Optics Engineering

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Engineer, Optics Engineering. Location: British Columbia, Canada

Responsibilities:

• Provide technical leadership for the design and engineering of optical sub-systems supporting Photonic’s quantum computing roadmap
• Collaborate across science and engineering teams to move optical sub-system designs from prototype to manufacturable solutions
• Lead the design, build, and test roadmap for sub-systems including precision optical sources, single-photon fiber networks, and telemetry for in-system diagnostics in the O-band regime;
• Ensure cross-functional alignment of sub-system specifications to requirements
• Advance capabilities through collaboration with strategic suppliers, developing new components, designs, test, and manufacturing methods
• Define optical design and validation flows, including tools, methods, and testing procedures
• Lead specification and modeling of optical link architecture;
• Deliver fiber-based electro-optical assemblies and sub-systems using state-of-the-art photonic technologies
• Track and meet technical and programmatic requirements such as performance, stability, reliability, noise/environmental sensitivity, uptime, space, cost, and schedule
• Identify new component technologies and drive innovations where needed
• Define telemetry and control schemes to monitor and optimize optical parameters critical for quantum system performance
• Drive delivery cadence in alignment with integrated photonics and quantum systems teams

Qualifications:

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Optics, Engineering, or Engineering Physics
• Over 15 years of industry experience in sectors such as telecommunications and data centers
• Proven record of driving innovation in optical solutions leading to successful market adoption
• Experience with fiber-based C- or O-band systems from early development through volume production
• Proficient in optical design, modeling, and data analysis software;
• Experience with test instruments, characterization of optical performance, and data analysis
• Strong technical leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills;
• Experience delivering new products following a full project lifecycle including requirements, design, build, and test flows
• Expertise in roadmap definition with stakeholder and supply chain alignment
• Leadership in optical engineering design methodology and cross-functional collaboration

Preferred:

• Familiarity with intellectual property development and technology commercialization
• Experience in high-growth or startup environments
• Proficient in Python or other scripting languages
• Familiarity with CAD/modeling tools such as Solidworks, Lumerical, or Altium

Benefits and Compensation:

• Work closely with innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs
• Inclusive and collaborative company culture
• Fast-paced environment with opportunities to solve innovative challenges;
• Competitive compensation including base salary (CAD $158,200 – $217,600), stock options, and relocation assistance
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, employee assistance programs, parental leave top-ups, and flexible spending accounts
• Regular social events and team activities to maintain engagement

Other information:

• Include a cover letter with your resume in one file describing why you are a great fit
• Photonic values equity, diversity, and inclusion, and considers all qualified candidates;
• AI tools may assist in application review but do not determine outcomes; hiring decisions are made by humans
• Roles are for current vacancies; speculative applications are welcome to stay informed about future opportunities