Inpho is a fast-growing startup, focused on developing cutting-edge optoelectronic solutions for next-generation communications, and photonic systems. Our multidisciplinary team is pushing the boundaries of innovation in integrated photonics and semiconductor packaging.
Inpho's electro-photonic chips are designed to enable lower-cost, higher-performance optical interconnects and new high-speed architectures for next-generation communications. Our team is working to commercialize differentiated photonic semiconductor technology that pushes the performance limits of today's optical interconnect systems.
About the Role
We are seeking a Photonic Product Validation & Characterization Engineer who is an autonomous and proactive problem solver. This role is responsible for the "why" and the "what" – assisting in defining what must be measured, how results should be interpreted, and whether the product meets its intended performance. The successful candidate will contribute to the characterization strategy from the test bench through EVT/DVT conclusions and reporting, with minimal oversight. Success means delivering technically sound, defensible results that enable confident product down-selection and release decisions.
Key Responsibilities
• Project Execution: Work closely with the lab and validation teams to determine and execute on EVT/DVT characterization strategy, test coverage, acceptance criteria, data analysis, technical conclusions, and reporting for high-speed InP EMLs and photodetectors, while coordinating test execution with the broader validation and test team.
• Analytical Problem Solving: Go beyond data collection to extract key parameters such as bandwidth, RIN, extinction ratio, optical power, wavelength/spectrum, and modulation performance. Interpret electrical, optical, frequency-domain, and time-domain results in the context of device physics to identify trends, anomalies, and likely root causes of performance limitations.
• Characterization Method Development: Develop and optimize characterization methods, test setups, fixtures, calibration and de-embedding approaches, and measurement procedures for new photonic devices. Assess measurement limitations and ensure data integrity, repeatability, and correlation across setups.
• Reporting: Analyze datasets and deliver clear, professional EVT/DVT validation reports, including technical conclusions and recommendations, for internal and external stakeholders.
• Data Analysis & Pipelines: Utilize Python to build and improve data processing, visualization, and analysis tools that make complex performance data easy to interpret and support efficient technical decision-making.
• Collaborative Bridge: Work closely with design, test, reliability, and product teams to refine characterization methods, troubleshoot device-level issues, and translate validation results into actionable technical decisions.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree (PhD also welcome) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
- 5+ years of practical experience in photonic or semiconductor device characterization and validation.
- Strong understanding of InP semiconductor device physics, particularly lasers/EMLs, modulators, and photodetectors, with the ability to connect measured electrical and optical behavior to underlying device physics. Familiarity with high-speed modulation and PAM4 testing concepts is required.
- Hands-on experience characterizing high-speed InP photonic devices, including EMLs/lasers and/or photodetectors. Experience with key measurements such as bandwidth, RIN, extinction ratio, optical power, wavelength/spectrum, and high-speed modulation performance. Proven experience with Python-based data analysis (Pandas, Plotly, or similar). Familiarity with BERT, VNA/LCA, OSA, and related high-speed optical/RF characterization equipment is strongly preferred.
Soft Skills
- High level attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
- Strong communication, including cross-functionally, interpersonal, teamwork, and organizational skills.
Preferred Additional Experience
- Experience working in a fast-paced environment, independently and as part of a team.
- Experience working in a high-tech hardware design and manufacturing company.
Why Join Inpho?
- Be part of a mission-driven startup shaping the future of photonics.
- Competitive salary, full health benefits and equity packages, flexible work environment, and career growth opportunities.
Come work with a dynamic, high-talent team to build and commercialize the highest performance photonics chips in the world!
Additional Information
This posting is for a newly created position.
The expected compensation range for this position is CAD$100,000 - $150,000 annually. Actual compensation offered for this position will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the candidate’s skills, level, experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the role.
Inpho may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support aspects of the recruitment process, including candidate screening and assessment. All final hiring decisions are made by Inpho’s Hiring Team.
Inpho is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Inpho Human Resources at [email protected]
We thank all candidates for their interest in Inpho. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
