Photonic Test Engineer

The application window is expected to close on: 03/31/2026 Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received. This is an onsite role and will require working out of our Carlsbad, CA office location. Meet the Team As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will play a critical role in developing/supporting the next generation component and packaging platform for Cisco's Silicon Photonics Integrated Circuits and chipsets. As a key member of the platform development team that is responsible for developing photonic components, tools and processes, you’ll devise, develop and execute engineering-test processes supporting novel optical components to be used in Cisco’s silicon photonics product offerings. Your Impact Design, Develop and Support Devise, develop, build and perform engineering tests to support Cisco’s silicon photonics co-packaged optics platform. Perform failure analysis on optical components and assemblies Resolve issues using structured problem-solving methodologies Recommend and implement test/assembly/process improvements, including cycle time reduction and automation of system to minimize required operator time and intervention Diagnostics Development & Lifecycle Management Support specialized testing needs to verify performance of new components, processes, and tools from development to production to ensure successful integration of new platform technologies Devise and perform complex tests needed during FA as part of development and continuous improvement Apply data analytics leveraging AI/ML for proactive problem detection and resolution Collaboration & Team Development Partner with hardware, software, manufacturing teams to ensure alignment and successful program delivery. Develop and execute project plans with predictability, quality and velocity. Collaborate and travel to assure successful product deployment across a global environment Minimum Qualifications Bachelors + 7 years of related experience, or Masters + 4 years of related experience, or PhD + 1 year of related experience. Experience with photonic test Preferred Qualifications C# and SQL skills highly desired Experience in hardware/software automation of photonics assembly/test. Data analysis (SQL/JMP) in a semiconductor production environment Knowledge of photonics, fiber optics and semiconductor lasers Ability to travel internationally occasionally Why Cisco? At Cisco, we’re revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era – and beyond. We’ve been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint. Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions. Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you’ll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless. We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale. Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere. We are Cisco, and our power starts with you. Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada: The starting salary range posted for this position is $128,200.00 to $162,300.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including incentive compensation*, equity, or benefits. Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process. U.S. employees are offered benefit ... (truncated, view full listing at source)