NPI Test Engineer
Location: Milan, Italy
Employment Type: Full-time
An established leader in photonics and optical component manufacturing is expanding its European R&D operations and is now hiring an NPI Test Engineer to join its new innovation hub in Milan. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the industrialization of cutting-edge lithium niobate photonic devices for next-generation telecom, datacom, and sensing applications.
About the Role:
As an NPI (New Product Introduction) Test Engineer, you will lead the design, optimization, and deployment of automated test solutions for both in-line and final testing of lithium niobate-based photonic devices. You’ll play a key role in transitioning test procedures from R&D into scalable, production-ready systems, ensuring high yield, efficiency, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
· Develop and implement automated test solutions for new photonic products
· Collaborate closely with R&D and Engineering teams to apply Design for Test (DFT) principles and define effective testing strategies
· Optimize hardware and software for automated test benches, including procurement and release to production
· Define test flows and pass/fail criteria for high-frequency electro-optical modulators and related devices
· Prepare and maintain documentation for production, including work instructions, equipment procedures, and KPI tracking
· Provide technical training and support to production teams
Candidate Profile:
· Master’s degree in Optics, Electronics, Materials Science, Physics, or related field
· At least 5 years of experience in NPI or test engineering, ideally in the photonics or microelectronics industry
· Proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, and NI TestStand; familiarity with SQL/NoSQL databases is a plus
· Solid knowledge of DC and RF electrical testing across wafer, chip, and module levels
· Experience with fiber alignment systems and active alignment techniques is highly desirable
· Proven track record of successfully supporting NPI projects through to production
· Fluent in English; strong communication and collaboration skills
· Willingness to travel occasionally as part of project coordination and equipment support
This role offers the chance to be at the forefront of a rapidly growing technology area, working alongside a skilled team within a modern and dynamic R&D environment.
Apply now to join a company committed to shaping the future of integrated photonics.
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Jack Kindell