System Validation Engineer

About the role • We are looking for a hands-on, lab-centric person to own system-level bringup and debug of our electro-optical hardware – a complex system of mixed-signal ASICs, photonic modules, DSP chips, and power management ICs. Your core strength: methodically isolating problems and localizing them to a specific component or subsystem. Potential to grow into a module lead role. What you'll do • Lead PCB and system-level bringup, first power-on through functional validation • Isolate failures in a complex system of mixed-signal ASICs, photonics, DSP chips, and power management ICs, localizing each issue to a specific component or subsystem • Debug hardware/firmware interactions and analog circuit behavior using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and spectrum analyzers • Perform signal integrity and power integrity measurements; localize sources of noise and cross-talk • Drive failure analysis on prototype and production units; turn findings into corrective actions • Validate chip-to-board communication (I2C, SPI, UART, GPIO) • Build test plans with clear pass/fail criteria and Python automation for lab and production testing • Support offshore manufacturing partners on assembly validation, calibration, and production test Required Qualifications • BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering from a top research university • ~5 years of hands-on lab experience in PCB bringup, system validation, signal/power integrity, or failure analysis • Solid analog circuit knowledge – bias networks, LDOs, PLLs, ADCs/DACs, mixed-signal interfaces – and the instincts to debug them at the bench • Opto-electronic debug experience: optical power meters, photodetectors, spectrum analyzers • Python for test automation and data analysis • Fluent reading schematics, layout files, and datasheets Preferred Qualifications • Board-level work with SiP or ASIC platforms • Experience with embedded microcontrollers, SoCs, and FPGAs • Reliability testing (thermal cycling, HALT, HASS); taking products into mass production Benefits (subject to location and local regulations) • Competitive salary and equity • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage • 401(k) retirement plan • Flexible vacation and time-off policy • Collaborative, fast-paced, and inclusive work environment • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies with a highly cross-functional team