What are the responsibilities and job description for the Measurement Engineer position at Photon Kinetics?
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Photon Kinetics is the world’s trusted standard in optical fiber testing and measurement solutions. For more than 40 years, our instruments have helped fiber and cable manufacturers deliver the performance that enables high-speed communication networks around the globe.
As the world moves deeper into AI-driven computing and hyperscale data centers, the demand for precise measurement and reliable optical infrastructure continues to grow. Photon Kinetics is applying its expertise in measurement science, automation, and precision systems to help build the connectivity backbone that powers the next generation of data and AI technologies.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Measurement Engineer will play a key role in designing and developing next-generation optical measurement systems and automated manufacturing subsystems supporting AI infrastructure and data center connectivity.
This hands-on engineering position requires collaboration across optical, electrical, and software disciplines to create precision instruments that set new standards in accuracy, reliability, and manufacturability. The role reports to the Director of Engineering (Patrick Tourreau) and works closely with the Product Director (Chris Luetjen) to align technical direction with evolving market opportunities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design and develop new precision measurement and automation systems.
- Apply mechanical engineering principles to design high-accuracy assemblies, motion systems, and instrument enclosures.
- Manage projects from concept through release, coordinating across mechanical, optical, electrical, and software disciplines.
- Build and test prototypes; analyze results to guide development decisions.
- Support design transfer to manufacturing, including definition of assemblies, calibration, and verification procedures.
- Collaborate with suppliers and internal manufacturing to optimize cost, performance, and reliability.
- Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement of PK’s engineering practices.
- Occasional travel may be required for supplier collaboration or prototype support.
TOP 3 KEY OUTCOMES IN THE FIRST YEAR
- System Innovation: Deliver at least one new mechanical subsystem that advances PK’s optical measurement capabilities or manufacturing automation.
- Design Excellence: Improve design-for-manufacture practices to reduce assembly time and increase system precision.
- Collaboration Impact: Build strong cross-functional relationships between engineering, manufacturing, and product management to accelerate development cycles.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
- Minimum of three years of experience developing mechanical or electromechanical products, ideally in instrumentation, automation, or measurement equipment.
- Proficiency in 3D CAD (CREO preferred) and strong understanding of design-for-manufacture principles.
- Experience with prototyping, testing, and design validation.
- Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills.
- Proven ability to take full ownership of complex projects.
- Experience with optical, metrology, or automation systems is a plus.
WHY JOIN PHOTON KINETICS
You’ll work on technologies that enable the next wave of AI and data center innovation. At Photon Kinetics, you’ll join a highly skilled, collaborative team where your designs move from concept to production quickly. You’ll have visibility and impact in a company recognized globally for engineering excellence and precision.