Manager, Optical Validation

PsiQuantum•Milpitas, CA

4d•$140,900 - $236,600

About The Position

The Optical Validation Manager leads validation activities for next-generation fiber-optics-based modules for quantum computing, from proof of concept for new test methodologies and early designs through high-volume manufacturing. The role ensures that sub-assemblies and blades are validated according to plan and leads characterization, testing, binning, and failure analysis for silicon-photonics optical modules. The manager provides technical and project oversight for the validation team and collaborates across functions to review hardware designs, identify measurable parameters, improve testability, interpret results, and guide decisions. The role also develops team members through coaching, performance evaluations, career-path development, and knowledge sharing. The role is based in one of four U.S. geographic compensation zones. The estimated annual base salary range is $140,900–$236,600 USD, depending on zone and other factors. Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Benefits include health coverage, a 401(k) with company match, equity grants, financial wellness resources, wellness benefits, family support programs, life and disability insurance, paid leave, paid holidays, discretionary time off, and an end-of-year company shutdown. Eligibility and availability may vary by location, role, or employment status.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or above in engineering or a related field.
10+ years of industry experience relevant to validating and testing optical systems.
3+ years of team and people management experience.
Proven record of leading validation and failure analysis of fiber-optics-based hardware products.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate 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 for fiber-optics-based modules and execute them to challenging deadlines.
Manage the validation team, including technical oversight, project management, talent management, performance evaluations, and coaching.
Supervise measurements, deliver validation reports, and provide daily activity summaries.
Identify issues, document them, and drive failure analysis in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Track milestones and schedule impacts, and provide reports with expected yield indications for the operations team.
Review hardware designs—including optics, electronics, firmware, software, and thermal design—to identify key parameters to measure and influence designs for testability.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide key learnings for the development of next-generation products.
Lead technical discussions to review data and results, summarize outcomes, and determine next steps.
Mentor early-career engineers and support the growth of experienced engineers and technical leads.
Define technical career paths and build subject-matter expertise through proactive coaching, regular performance evaluations, and knowledge sharing.