Senior Optical Engineer - Direct Hire

Senior Optical Engineer

(Global Infrastructure & Connectivity Industry)

Overview

If you’re energized by complex engineering challenges, rapid innovation cycles, and the chance to shape the future of global connectivity, this role sits at the center of it. Our organization is a long‑established leader in advanced subsea communication systems, supporting the world’s most ambitious technology companies, governments, and network operators. Since the early 1950s, we’ve been building the systems that keep continents connected and communities online.

Our teams design, engineer, and deploy high‑reliability fiber‑optic technologies that form the backbone of international data networks. Creativity, technical rigor, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration define our culture. Whether you’re an experienced technical leader or looking to take the next step in your engineering career, this is an opportunity to influence next‑generation global infrastructure.

Position Summary

The Senior Manager of Lightwave Technology (SR Optical Engineer) leads a team of highly skilled electro‑optical engineers responsible for researching, designing, prototyping, testing, and transitioning to production the next generation of subsea optical products. These include repeaters, branching units, and advanced optical switching technologies such as ROADMs.

This role drives system architecture, oversees optical amplifier development, and ensures that designs meet stringent reliability and performance requirements for long‑haul undersea environments. You will collaborate closely with senior leadership, program management, manufacturing engineering, and top‑tier component suppliers to deliver mission‑critical network elements on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership — Guide end‑to‑end optical product development from concept through customer delivery.
• Optical Amplifier Design — Oversee all optical amplifier engineering activities supporting program needs.
• Cross‑Functional Integration — Lead multidisciplinary teams spanning optical, electrical, mechanical, and firmware engineering.
• Requirements & Reviews — Participate in requirements definition, design reviews, and system‑level decision making.
• Manufacturing Support — Develop manufacturing test requirements, analyze production data, and support resolution of test‑related issues.
• Supplier & Partner Engagement — Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external component suppliers.
• Field Deployment Collaboration — Work with installation teams to ensure proper deployment and operation of optical equipment.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent experience.
• Deep expertise in fiber‑optic engineering, including hands‑on EDFA design.
• Strong knowledge of optical components and subsea communication system technologies.
• Experience with optical/electronic testing, automated lab setups, and reliability/qualification standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high‑performing technical teams.
• Strong project planning, risk assessment, and mitigation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Familiarity with basic electronics and schematic interpretation is beneficial.
• Self‑directed, adaptable, and comfortable managing varied workloads.

Additional Information

This description outlines the core responsibilities of the role but is not exhaustive. Duties may evolve to meet organizational needs.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available. Employment eligibility verification is required at hire.

Benefits

Our client offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• FSA and HSA options
• Generous vacation and paid sick leave
• Paid parental leave and paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and adoption assistance
• 401(k) with company match