Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Supermicro•San Jose, CA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Supermicro is seeking a motivated Optical Manufacturing Engineer with 2–4 years of hands-on experience in optical networking and photonics to support the development and production of next-generation high-speed optical interconnect solutions for AI and hyperscale datacenters. This role focuses on optical transceiver technologies, including Co-Packaged Optics (CPO), Optical Circuit Switches (OCS), and high-speed modules (800G/1.6T). The ideal candidate has solid technical knowledge in fiber optics, photoelectric conversion, and manufacturing processes, along with a strong desire to grow in a fast-paced, collaborative global environment. Prior experience in optical component manufacturing or high-tech electronics production is preferred.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Photonics, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master’s degree is a plus).
5+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree or 3+ years of relevant experience with a Master’s degree in optical communication systems, photonics technologies, or electronics/high-tech manufacturing.
Practical knowledge of: Optical transceivers, fiber-optic communication, and high-speed optical modules.
Silicon photonics, optical packaging, DSP, and signal integrity concepts.
Manufacturing quality control, process optimization, and production line support.
Experience with 100G/400G/800G systems is highly desirable.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, data analysis) and familiarity with statistical tools is a plus.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Good English communication and interpersonal skills; ability to collaborate effectively with global teams.
Willingness to work on the production floor and provide occasional support outside regular hours when needed.
Physical capability to stand/walk for extended periods

Responsibilities

Analyze and optimize the advanced optical interconnect, transceiver, and photonic manufacturing related solutions to improve SMC product yield.
Participate in testing, validation, and troubleshooting of photoelectric conversion, fiber-optic communication systems, silicon photonics, and signal integrity issues.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (hardware, Firmware, and PM) and external partners to ensure successful product development and deployment.
Help identify and resolve optical performance, thermal, packaging, and signal integrity challenges.
Contribute to scaling next-generation optical platforms from development to production.
Travel occasionally to manufacturing sites to support technology transfer and production activities.
Provide day-to-day technical support on the production floor for optical module assembly, testing, and quality control processes.
Monitor production operations to ensure efficiency (OEE), minimize downtime, and maintain high product quality standards.
Perform quality inspections of parts, components, and finished optical products; isolate defects, analyze root causes, and support corrective actions.
Assist in optimizing manufacturing processes using Lean Manufacturing (5S), Six Sigma principles, and continuous improvement methods.
Support equipment maintenance, calibration, and basic troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues.
Maintain accurate production records and contribute to daily, weekly, and monthly reports.
Work closely with production operators and technicians to improve workflow, skills, and overall team efficiency.
Monitor inventory levels of materials and tools to support uninterrupted production.
Promote safety protocols and environmental best practices on the manufacturing floor.