Silicon Photonics Test Development Engineer (2027 New College Graduate)

Job Title

Silicon Photonics Test Development Engineer (2027 New College Graduate)

Role Summary

Entry-level engineering position in the Test Development organization supporting silicon photonics (SiPh) technologies. The role develops and improves automated optical and electrical test solutions to characterize photonic integrated circuits (PICs), analyze device performance, and support technology development and product qualification.

Experience Level

Entry-level - New college graduate. Internships or co-op experience are preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities focus on developing test methods and running device characterization campaigns for silicon photonics.

• Develop, execute, and document automated optical and electrical test plans, instrument control, sequencing, data acquisition, and analysis in a Linux environment.
• Perform device and circuit characterization: I–V, C–V, optical insertion loss, waveguide loss, wavelength response, fiber-to-chip coupling, photodetector responsivity, modulator transfer, and electro-optic bandwidth.
• Establish and improve high-speed test methods using VNAs, oscilloscopes, tunable lasers, optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, SMUs, probe stations, and RF/optical probes; support calibration, de-embedding, and measurement repeatability.
• Analyze large characterization datasets using statistical methods and AI tools to identify trends, outliers, and variation sources; troubleshoot hardware, software, and data-quality issues.
• Communicate technical results in reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve test coverage, throughput, and capability.
• Perform work in a safe and compliant manner; support Environmental, Health, Safety & Security requirements.

Requirements

Concise list of must-have and preferred qualifications based on the posting.

• Must-have: English fluency (written and verbal); ability to work in a laboratory environment and follow safety procedures.

Nice-to-have / Preferred:

• Prior internship or co-op experience and demonstrated leadership in projects or teams.
• Interest in applying AI tools and emerging technologies to improve testing and analysis.
• Project management, problem-solving, and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Advanced programming experience in Linux using Python and C/C++; familiarity with R or Perl is a plus.
• Foundational knowledge of silicon photonics, optical/electrical device characterization, high-speed/mm-wave circuits, statistics, and experimental test methodology.
• Hands-on laboratory, capstone, or research experience preferred.

Education Requirements

Graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited program. Must have at least an overall 3.0 GPA and demonstrated good academic standing.

About the Company

Company: GlobalFoundries

Headquarters: Saratoga Springs, New York, USA

GlobalFoundries is a leading contract manufacturer for the global semiconductor industry, with facilities in multiple countries, including the USA. The company develops a broad portfolio of semiconductor technologies and employs around 13,000 people worldwide. GlobalFoundries focuses on enhancing competitiveness in specialized application solutions and fostering innovation in mobile communications, consumer electronics, and automotive applications.