Principal R&D Design Engineer

About Indium Phosphide (InP) Technology

The world’s communications infrastructure depends on semiconductor lasers, and particularly those based on indium phosphide technology. Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance transmission through fiber optics. In short, they enable the optical networks that form the global internet.

Coherent’s broad portfolio of InP components includes application-specific Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated lasers (DMLs), and tunable lasers. It also includes photodiodes for high-speed receivers and power monitoring. In 2022, we introduced 200 Gbps indium phosphide electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs) for high-speed datacenter transceivers. This design provides our customers with the most advanced, robust, and cost-competitive laser devices for their 800G and next-gen 1.6T datacom transceiver designs. 

Our world-class and highly reliable InP technology platform is one of the very few in the industry that has been proven, with more than one hundred million lasers in the field deployed over the last decades.

We are seeking a Principal Engineer to drive the design and development of high-power InP-based semiconductor lasers for high-speed data communication applications. This role requires technical leadership, hands-on device development, and cross-functional coordination across internal teams and external partners. This role is an opportunity to be at the forefront of high-power laser innovation in a fast-paced, results-driven environment. If you thrive on hands-on development, technical challenges, and collaborative problem-solving, we encourage you to apply.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and execution of InP-based semiconductor lasers for high-speed data communication applications.
• Comprehensive hands-on ownership of all aspects of laser design, including grating, epitaxy, and coating.
• Device simulation to identify key design variables and set targets for optimal performance and yield.
• Formulation and execution of wafer fabrication launches.
• Design of test protocols and techniques to provide effective design feedback.
• Technical coordination of internal and external teams, including epitaxy, semiconductor wafer fabrication, assembly, and test.
• Program management, tracking schedule and milestones to ensure timely execution.
• Customer interaction, translating customer requirements into laser specifications.
• Direct engagement with external vendors, handling both technical and business aspects.

Education & Experience

• PhD in Electrical Engineering or Physics.
• 6–10 years of relevant industry experience.

Skills

• Strong understanding of semiconductor physics, particularly laser physics and operating characteristics.
• Experience with device simulation is a plus.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor device fabrication processes, with hands-on experience preferred.
• Hands-on experience with device characterization techniques, including both electrical and optical measurements.
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills, including statistical tools, data analysis, and presentation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of managing complex teams in a collaborative environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, including documentation.
• Ability to take full ownership of project scope, including definition of technical and schedule milestones.
• Work effectively with other members of Coherent Corp. xxxxx.

Working Conditions

• Full-time, on-site position.
• Occasional travel required.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and II-VI Corporate EHS standards. This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.

Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently.  They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.