TITLE: OPTICAL ENGINEER

FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT

REPORTS TO: MANAGER, HAMR INTEGRATION

SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Manager of HAMR Integration, the Optical Engineer is responsible for the optical design and characterization of HAMR (Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording) light delivery systems. Other duties include proposing, testing, and delivering design improvements and enhancements for current and future products, performing optical modeling and simulations and presenting data and findings, and partnering with other departments or groups to deliver and track experiments and characterization initiatives. This position is located in Milpitas, California.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs optical modeling with optical simulation tools such as Lumerical, Rsoft, and COMSOL; analyzes data and presents findings.
• Maintains current optical instrumentation and develops new metrologies for the optical characterization of HAMR heads
• Partners with the process engineering group to carry out and track experiments to mature technology for product intercept
• Coordinates with testing group regarding the characterization of laser diode, light path, and NFT (Near Field Transducer)
• Conducts failure analysis of light delivery system; proposes corrective action if needed.
• Analyzes testing and failure analysis data to guide the design direction of HAMR heads.
• Collaborates with various teams in the US, Japan, and China regarding product development
• Provides updates on projects, including analysis of data and results; draws conclusion, presents findings, and recommends appropriate action
• Adheres to all safety policies and procedures as required
• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level*
  MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Master's degree in Optical Engineering or Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics and/or equivalent relevant experience; PhD preferred
• Two years of experience working in optics, plasmonics, optical chip design, or similar field
• Knowledge of or hands' on experience with laser package design and assembly
• Experience using optical instrumentation
  
  Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Knowledge of semiconductor, HDD, or wafer manufacturing industry principles, practices, and techniques
• Knowledge and ability to track projects of various scope and complexity, including concept design, assembly, executive, and interpretation of results
• Knowledge and ability to use various failure analysis techniques and instrumentation such as TEM, EELS, EDS, SIMS, XPS, etc.
• Knowledge and ability to communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of employees and management
• Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create spreadsheets, Word documents, and presentations
• Knowledge and ability to present concepts and findings effectively to large groups
• Ability to perform modeling and simulations using various software applications
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision; self-directed
• Able to comply with all safety policies and procedures
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
• Demonstrated problem-solving and trouble shooting skills
• Flexible and able to prioritize
  
  The annual base salary for this full-time position is between $96,655.20-$142,140.00 bonus target benefits. Within the range the individual pay may differ depending on additional factors including job responsibilities, job related knowledge, skills, abilities, education, and experience. The annual base pay range shown is subject to change and may be modified periodically.
  
  WORKING CONDITIONS:
  The Optical Engineer works primarily in an office environment from Monday thru Friday. The schedule may be altered from time-to-time to meet business or operational needs; may travel from building-to-building as needed. May also work in an ESD sensitive laboratory or testing environment; adheres to required safety and dress standards. May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, fumes, or vapors and excessive noise from time-to-time; stands and walks; performs various fine grasping movements, bends, and twists; operates a computer and enters information using a keyboard, operates a telephone, and other office equipment. May occasionally be required to push, pull, or lift up to 10 pounds.
  
  *Other duties of a similar nature or level are duties that may be required, but may not be specifically listed in the job description or posting.
  
  TDK/Headway Technologies, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. Applicants requiring accommodation in order to complete the application process should contact the Headway Human Resources Department.