Senior Optical Transceiver Design Engineer

Arista Networks • Santa Clara, CA

76d • $140,000 - $198,000

About The Position

Arista Networks is seeking an exceptional Senior Optical Transceiver Design Engineer to join our fast-paced, innovative environment. This role will focus on the design and development of next-generation optical modules and engines at 1.6Tbps and beyond. You’ll play a key role in expanding Arista's leadership in data center connectivity and enabling differentiation in the networking space. As part of the Hardware Architecture Engineering Division, you will be responsible for defining transceiver module architecture and detailed engineering specifications based on system-level requirements.

Requirements

• B.Tech (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in optical transceiver design, fiber optics, RF modulation, and networking systems.
• Hands-on experience with PCB schematic design and layout review for optical modules.
• High-speed opto-electrical system design, including DSPs, power rails, and microcontroller interfaces.
• MSA and IEEE standards for optical transceivers (e.g., QSFP, OSFP, CMIS).
• Testing transceiver performance: TDECQ, receiver sensitivity, stressed eye measurements.
• DSP configuration and FIR equalization optimization for PAM4/NRZ signaling.
• Software scripting skills for automation using Python, C++, or LabVIEW.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of interfacing across technical and managerial levels.

Nice To Haves

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Expertise in optical transmission systems (TOSA/ROSA, Mach-Zehnder modulators, etc.).
• Optical and electrical link analysis and impairment budgeting (OSNR, loss, etc.).
• IC package design and analysis.
• High-speed SerDes design (analog/DSP architectures).
• RF front-end components (Drivers, TIAs, LAs).
• Signal and power integrity analysis (HFSS, ADS, SI/PI tools).
• Familiarity with coherent and direct-detect optical systems and DSP algorithms (e.g., clock recovery, polarization de-mux).
• System-level understanding of current and emerging optical transceiver architectures and standards.
• Strong problem-solving skills and collaborative, proactive attitude.
• Willingness to travel when required.

Responsibilities

• Define and architect optical transceiver modules (1.6T and beyond) aligned with product-level requirements.
• Design high-speed PCB schematics including power, control, and signal interfaces for optical modules.
• Guide layout engineers to complete PCB layout that meets mechanical, signal integrity, thermal, and manufacturing constraints.
• Collaborate across disciplines to ensure successful integration of optical, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Lead technical validation, bring-up, and performance optimization of optical transceivers.
• Support design validation, qualification, and root-cause analysis during development and production ramp.
• Stay current with and implement relevant industry standards (IEEE, MSA, CMIS, etc.).
• Contribute to automation of transceiver performance testing using Python, C++, or LabVIEW.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Wellbeing programs.
• Tax savings and income protection.
• Discretionary bonuses and equity opportunities.
• Sales Incentive Plan for eligible sales roles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees