Manager, Optical Validation

PsiQuantum•Milpitas, CA

5d•$140,900 - $236,600

About The Position

PsiQuantum is seeking an Optical Validation Manager to lead validation activities for next-generation silicon-photonics optical modules used in quantum computing applications. The role ensures that sub-assemblies and blades are validated according to plan, from proof of concept for new test methodologies and early designs through high-volume manufacturing. The manager leads characterization, testing, binning, and failure analysis for fiber-optics-based modules, while coordinating with cross-functional teams and managing the validation team. The position includes responsibility for validation planning and execution, hardware design review, reporting on results and expected yields, and developing the team's capabilities. The role may be filled in one of four U.S. geographic zones. Base salary ranges vary by zone: Zone 1, $201,400–$236,600; Zone 2, $181,200–$212,900; Zone 3, $161,100–$189,300; and Zone 4, $140,900–$165,600. Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or above in engineering or a related field.
10 or more years of industry experience relevant to validating and testing optical systems.
At least 3 years of team and people management experience.
Demonstrated experience leading validation and failure analysis of fiber-optics-based hardware products.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with senior leadership and technical experts.
Direct experience validating silicon-photonics assemblies, advanced optical modules, or multi-chip co-packaged systems with control electronics using embedded firmware.
Expertise with fiber-optic devices such as optical delay lines, polarization controllers, filters, electro-optical modulators, detectors, and lasers.
Expertise with optical equipment, including power meters, optical backscatter reflectometers (OBR), optical spectrum analyzers (OSA), and optical switches.

Responsibilities

Develop comprehensive characterization, verification, and validation plans and execute them on schedule for fiber-optics-based modules.
Manage the validation team, including technical oversight, project management, talent management, performance evaluations, and coaching.
Lead validation measurement activities, deliver validation reports and daily activity summaries, identify and describe issues, and drive failure analysis with cross-functional teams.
Track program milestones and schedule impacts, and provide the operations team with reports and expected yield indications.
Review hardware designs, including optics, electronics, firmware, software, and thermal design; identify key parameters to measure and influence designs to ensure testability.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide learning that supports development of next-generation products.
Lead technical discussions to review data and results, help summarize outcomes, and make decisions about next steps.
Mentor engineers and technical leads, define technical career paths, and build subject-matter expertise through coaching, performance evaluations, and knowledge sharing.