Distinguished Photonics System Engineer

Credo•San Jose, CA

3h•$230,000 - $315,000

About The Position

The ALC architecture team is responsible for ensuring that multiple optical, photonic, electronic, and mechanical components and processes will come together in a working photonic system. This requires working closely with engineers and vendors on component specification, design, simulation, and characterization, performing system level design, simulation, and analysis, and contributing to product strategy, technical roadmap, and customer engagement. We are seeking a Distinguished Photonics Layout Engineer with deep, industry-recognized expertise in high-density optical interconnects to serve as a top technical authority for the organization - setting architectural direction, driving innovation, and representing Credo's technical vision to customers, partners, and the broader industry.

Requirements

PhD in Engineering, Physics or a related field.
18+ years of R&D experience in the optical transceiver and communications industry with a demonstrated track record of industry-recognized technical impact.
Hands-on technical knowledge of optical interconnect systems and components and experience in bringing optical/semiconductor components together into a system that can be scaled in high-volume manufacturing.
Strong understanding of RF waveforms, signal formats, circuits, and signal integrity relevant to high-speed optical communication.
Experience with multimode fiber and parallel optical interconnect products.
Proficiency with optical raytracing tools such as Zemax or LightTools.
Proficiency with numerical analysis tools such as MATLAB or Python.
Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction and culture across teams without formal authority, and to align cross-functional stakeholders around a shared technical vision.
Strong collaboration, adaptability in dynamic environments, and a customer-focused approach to driving change and delivering results.
Flexibility with travel to support initial global supply chain.

Responsibilities

Set technical direction and standards for optical emitter, detector, optics, fiber cable/connector, electronics, board, substrate, and software specifications across the organization.
Partner with team members across the global Credo and supplier ecosystem to advance preferred designs and meet product introduction goals for performance and schedule.
Lead design, simulation, and experimental analysis of optical interconnect systems, evaluating the system-level impact of component choices and emerging technologies.
Shape and lead multi-year product strategy and technology roadmap development, partnering directly with senior leadership on high-impact technical bets.
Serve as a top technical authority and mentor across the engineering organization - providing guidance to junior and senior engineers alike, and acting as a trusted technical resource for senior management, product marketing, and sales.
Represent Credo externally as a recognized industry expert -through publications, patents, conference participation, and/or standards body engagement (e.g., IEEE, OIF).
Drive decisions with direct business impact, influencing product competitiveness, cost structure, and time-to-market at a company-wide level.