Optical Interconnect Process Engineer

Optical Interconnect Process Engineer LocationLondon, UKEmployment TypeFull timeLocation TypeOn-siteDepartmentEngineeringOpticsCompensationLondonStarting from £121KAbout OLIXAI is growing faster than any technology in history and the explosion in demand has created a massive infrastructure gap; we can no longer build chips or power stations fast enough to keep up. The industry is still leaning on a ten-year-old hardware blueprint that has reached its limit. A new paradigm that is faster and more efficient will be the biggest economic opportunity of the next century and create the most important company of the next decade. The OLIX Decode Accelerator 1 (DX-1) is the first accelerator architected specifically for decode. Rack-scale co-design of logic, data movement, packaging, optics and interconnect enables a step change in system level performance.The RoleAs an Optical Interconnect Process Engineer at OLIX, you will be responsible for translating optical interconnect architectures into scalable, manufacturable, and reliable hardware. This role focuses on optical packaging, optical alignment, yield, and production readiness for high-density optical systems, and co-packaged optics (CPO). You will work hands-on across prototyping, validation, manufacturing, characterization, and yield, ensuring designs can be built at scale with high performance and reliability.ResponsibilitiesOptical Interconnect ImplementationDesign and optimize high-density fiber-optic and waveguide interconnects. Develop fiber-to-waveguide and fiber-to-package coupling solutions. Develop routing, multiplexing, and signal distribution systems. Define alignment strategies and tolerances for high-volume assembly.Packaging & IntegrationDrive co-packaged optics (CPO) integration at package and system level. Address opto-mechanical constraints including connectors, fixturing, and alignment. Partner with mechanical and thermal teams on integrated system design. Evaluate thermal interactions between ASICs and photonic components.Process Development & ManufacturingDevelop processes for optical assembly, alignment, and test. Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to optical systems. Work with foundries, OSATs, and contract manufacturers Support pilot builds and production ramp.Yield, Reliability & ValidationAnalyze tolerance sensitivities and yield drivers. Investigate variability and resolve production issues. Define and execute validation plans for optical assemblies. Ensure reliability, serviceability, and field-replaceability.Skills & ExperienceExperience in advanced micro-fabrication, with deep process integration expertise.Experienced collaborating with external fabs, R&D consortia, or tool vendors to develop or transfer new capabilities.Proven record creating or modifying complete process flows for novel optoelectronic devices.Background in some of: photolithography, DRIE/RIE, thin-film deposition (PVD/ALD), wafer bonding, or wet etch.Comfortable switching between hands-on work and high-level process architecture and partner coordination.Proficient in DOE/SPC tools (JMP, Python, etc.) and disciplined process documentation.B.Eng./M.Sc/Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field.Excellent communicator; thrives in fast-moving, interdisciplinary environments.Nice to haveFamiliarity with wafer-level packaging or flip-chip integration.Experience transferring R&D processes to external pilot or production environments.Working knowledge of simulation and characterisation (FEM, profilometry, interferometry, L-I-V, or spectral testing).Compensation & EquityCompetitive Salary: Commensurate with your experience, skills, and locationEquity & Ownership: Meaningful stock options. You’re not just joining the mission; you’re owning a piece of itProximity Bonus: We value your time. To minimise your commute and maximise your life, we offer an annual Living-Local Bonus if your residence is within 20 minutes of the...