We are looking for a Photonics Test Specialist with hands-on experience in optical and photonic sensing technologies to join a growing engineering team developing advanced integrated photonics and optical sensing solutions.

The role will focus on the development of photonic test setups, characterization of integrated photonic devices, and analysis of device performance and fabrication results. You will work closely with optical, electronics, process and engineering teams to develop robust test methods and support the transition of photonic technologies from development through characterization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement test setups for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and optical devices, including phase modulators, lasers and photodetectors.
• Perform functional and parametric testing and characterization of PIC building blocks such as splitters, filters, circulators and optical resonators.
• Develop and continuously improve photonic test methods, measurement procedures and characterization strategies for demanding performance requirements.
• Analyse measurement data and establish performance trends against fabrication and process conditions.
• Support fabrication yield analysis and device performance evaluation.
• Develop, validate and maintain automated test programs and scripts for electro-optic and photonic devices.
• Develop data-analysis scripts and measurement procedures to improve test efficiency and repeatability.
• Interface with process and engineering teams to support development timelines and resolve technical issues.
• Work with test equipment and technology suppliers to evaluate, procure and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Support the selection and procurement of optical, electro-optical and electronic components based on technical and performance requirements.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory infrastructure, equipment and test capabilities.

Requirements

• BSc or higher in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Electro-Optics, Physics or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of industry experience in optoelectronics, integrated photonics or photonic system/component testing.
• Strong understanding of micro-photonic building blocks, ideally including optical resonators.
• Hands-on experience with the characterization of integrated optical devices and electro-optical systems.
• Experience working with optical components such as:
  • Splitters
  • Circulators
  • Isolators
  • Phase modulators
  • Lasers
  • Photodetectors
  • Optical filters/resonators
• Strong understanding of electro-optical signal processing and measurement techniques.
• Experience developing measurement procedures and/or automated test scripts.
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working hands-on in a laboratory environment with optical and electronic test equipment.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation and experimental methodology.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills and a proactive, solution-oriented approach.

Nice to Have

• Experience with cleanroom environments, MEMS or micro-optical sensing.
• Experience with optical sensing technologies.
• Experience with photonic device fabrication and process development.
• Experience with automation using Python, MATLAB or similar tools.
• Experience working in a start-up or fast-paced R&D environment.
• Experience with procurement, equipment selection or laboratory development.

What You’ll Bring

This is a hands-on role suited to an experimental engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of integrated photonics, optical devices, electronics, measurement and data analysis.

You will have the opportunity to influence how photonic devices are tested, characterized and improved, while working closely with multidisciplinary teams across photonics development and manufacturing.

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

Sindi Ngubane