If you’re ready to lead high-speed photonic test operations on a cutting-edge platform, this is the opportunity to put your mark on something that matters.

A deep-tech company at the forefront of photonic AI acceleration is hiring a Senior Characterization Engineer to lead the testing of thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic integrated circuits operating in the multi-GHz regime. You’ll design and oversee sophisticated test environments, drive data-led design improvements, and mentor the next generation of engineers.

The Role

This is a hands-on leadership role focused on high-precision photonic and electrical measurements. You’ll define and manage test strategies, build out lab infrastructure, and interface directly with design, process, and manufacturing teams to guide product development.

Key Responsibilities

· Lead daily lab operations and ensure high-quality, repeatable testing of PICs and optical modules

· Build and maintain advanced optical and RF test setups (VNAs, probe stations, tunable lasers, etc.)

· Define test procedures, calibration strategies, and data workflows

· Collaborate closely with design and fabrication teams to translate test results into action

· Manage test schedules and align campaigns with R&D and product roadmaps

· Coach and support junior engineers and technicians

What You’ll Need

· Master’s or PhD in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics or similar

· 8+ years in photonic testing, including 3+ years in GHz-regime testing

· Strong knowledge of TFLN device behaviour, RF signal integrity, and high-speed photonics

· Expert-level experience with optical and RF probe stations, calibration, and measurement systems

· Proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, or MATLAB for automation and data analysis

· Experience mentoring others and leading technical lab environments

· Fluent English (German or other European languages a plus)

Why Apply?

· Be part of a core team shaping a revolutionary photonic computing architecture

· Own and scale a high-impact test function from early R&D to product release

· Work on truly cutting-edge applications in AI and high-performance computing

· Join a passionate, fast-growing, international team backed by leading partners

· Competitive salary and long-term growth in a pioneering deep-tech scale-up

Ready to make your next move matter? Let’s talk.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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