SMTS Silicon Photonics Device Characterization Engineer

Job Title

SMTS Silicon Photonics Device Characterization Engineer

Role Summary

Characterize and qualify active and passive silicon photonic devices for high-speed optical interconnect and sensing applications in 45nm and future nodes. Work with process, design, and test teams to develop monitoring structures, analyze in-line electrical and optical data, and recommend improvements to device performance and manufacturability.

Experience Level

Senior. Experience guidance provided by employer: B.S. + 8 years, M.S. + 7 years, Ph.D. + 5 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

The role combines hands-on electrical/optical device testing, data analysis, test-structure design, and cross-functional coordination.

• Lead in-line optical and electrical characterization of passive and active silicon photonic device components.
• Design and coordinate testing of silicon photonic monitoring and test structures to predict yield and device figures of merit.
• Plan, coordinate, and document qualification activities for new photonic devices.
• Mine and analyze in-line, electrical, and optical data to identify performance and manufacturability improvements.
• Formulate and execute experiments to diagnose root causes and implement process or design changes.
• Interface with customers and photonics design engineers to debug technology versus process issues.
• Maintain safety and environmental compliance; support EHS programs.
• Travel to other facilities as required (typically <10%).

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and professional attributes; degrees and formal experience requirements are listed separately under Education Requirements.

• Technical: Hands-on experience with silicon photonic device simulation, design, test, and electrical/optical measurement equipment and data analysis.
• Test & qualification: Experience developing test structures and qualification plans for photonic devices; familiarity with yield prediction and device figures of merit.
• Interpersonal: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate across departments and global teams.
• Professional: Proactive mindset, strong planning and organizational skills, and ability to track projects to completion.
• Other: Willingness to follow EHS requirements and travel as needed.
• Nice-to-have: Integration/fabrication experience, advanced packaging knowledge, and project management experience.

Education Requirements

Required: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or equivalent degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, Photonics, or a related technical field. Employer specifies experience alternatives by degree level: B.S. + minimum 8 years relevant experience; M.S. + minimum 7 years relevant experience; Ph.D. + minimum 5 years relevant experience. Posting also allows equivalent degrees or practical experience where applicable.

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.