VP of Optics

Neurophos • Austin, TX

6d • $325,000 - $400,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Neurophos is seeking a visionary VP of Optics to lead the strategic direction and architectural development of our Optical Processing Unit (OPU) for Neuromorphic AI compute. As a key member of the leadership team, you will be responsible for setting the optics technology roadmap and defining the architectures that will power the future of photonic AI hardware. This role requires a proven track record of successfully deploying advanced optical modules into high-volume production. You will lead an elite team of engineers to translate groundbreaking research into robust, market-ready products. This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in an innovative startup redefining the future of AI hardware. Work on a game-changing technology at the intersection of photonics and AI as part of a collaborative and brilliant team. You’ll contribute to a platform that redefines computational performance and accelerates the future of artificial intelligence. Come help us bring this transformative technology to the world.

Requirements

• PhD or Master’s degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of industry experience in the design and development of high-performance free-space optical systems, with at least 5 years in a technical leadership or management capacity.
• Demonstrated success in deploying complex optical modules into production, specifically within the consumer electronics, telecommunications, or high-performance computing sectors.
• Expert-level knowledge of coherent light systems, Gaussian beam propagation, and ABCD matrix analysis.
• Hands-on proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Zemax, CODE V, or LightTools, as well as scripting in MATLAB or Python for system validation.
• Deep understanding of active alignment strategies for high-precision assemblies.
• Expertise in Monte Carlo simulations, tolerance analyses, and stray-light modeling to ensure reliability in real-world scenarios.
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex optical concepts to both technical stakeholders and non-technical executive leadership.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with neuromorphic computing or advanced AI hardware architectures.
• Knowledge of metamaterials or non-traditional optoelectronic integration.
• Familiarity with multi-aperture architectures or beam-steering systems.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the long-term optics strategy and technology roadmap to maintain Neurophos’ competitive edge in AI acceleration.
• Lead the design and definition of complex optical architectures for our Optical Processing Unit, ensuring seamless integration with metamaterials and silicon photonics.
• Supervise the modeling and simulation of coherent beam propagation using Gaussian beam optics, physical optics, and generalized beam matrix methods.
• Drive the transition of optical designs from concept to high-volume manufacturing, ensuring all architectures adhere to rigorous Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles.
• Oversee the development of advanced active alignment and calibration techniques to ensure optimal performance and minimal crosstalk in free-space optical sub-assemblies.
• Partner closely with the CTO and leads in Silicon Photonics, Electrical Engineering, and Software to deliver a unified hardware-software AI platform.
• Manage strategic relationships with external suppliers and manufacturing partners to validate components and secure the supply chain.

Benefits

• 100% coverage of base health plan premiums for you and your dependents, plus HSA contributions.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 401(k) matching and stock option opportunities.
• Full suite of voluntary benefits, including Dental, Vision, Life, Hospital, Critical Illness, and Accident insurance.
• Personalized Benefits. Choose the plans that fit your life and take the cash back for those that don’t.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive