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