Systems Applications Engineer - Optical

Systems Applications Engineer - Optical LocationSan JoseEmployment TypeFull timeLocation TypeOn-siteDepartmentEngineeringAbout LumilensAt Lumilens we are building the critical photonics infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI supercomputing. From chip-to-chip optical interconnects to scalable photonic engines, Lumilens is unlocking a new era of computing—faster, cooler, and massively more efficient.We’re a well-funded startup backed by Mayfield and led by veterans who’ve built and scaled some of the most transformative technologies in the industry. This isn’t incremental innovation—it’s a ground-floor opportunity to rethink the optical layer from the silicon up. You’ll work alongside a team of world-class engineers solving some of the hardest challenges in optics, systems, and scale. Every line of code, every design decision, every breakthrough you help deliver—will shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.If you're looking for mission, momentum, and the chance to make an outsized impact—jump on the rocket ship. We’re just getting started.Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled System Application Engineer (Optical) to support next‑generation AI networking platforms and high‑speed optical interconnects. In this role, you will work directly with customers deploying 800G and 1.6T optical transceivers on 51.2T‑class and next‑generation switches. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in optical transceiver operation, DSP configuration, and AI switch architectures—and thrives at the intersection of applications engineering, customer support, and system integration.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide expert technical support for 51.2T and next-generation switch architectures, with a strong focus on 800G and 1.6T optical transceiversServe as the primary customer-facing technical lead, translating customer requirements into system-level solutionsDebug and resolve complex interoperability issues across AI networking switches, DSPs, and high-speed optical modulesLead customer demos, evaluations, and hands-on system bring-up, including switch configuration, link validation, and performance tuningCollaborate cross-functionally with optical, ASIC, hardware, software, mechanical, and thermal engineering teams to ensure seamless product integrationPartner with silicon, EIC, and system teams to support end-to-end bring-up from chip-level to module- and system-level integrationEngage with external ecosystem partners (foundries, ASIC vendors, module partners) to align on technical capabilities, integration, and performance targetsContribute to industry standards bodies (e.g., MSA) and stay current with emerging trends in AI networking, optical interconnects, and switch architecturesOperate effectively across global teams, driving alignment and execution across multiple geographiesRequired QualificationsMaster’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering or a related technical fieldStrong understanding of optical transceivers, including architecture, configuration, and performance characteristicsExtensive hands-on experience with DSP bring-up, transceiver configuration, and high-speed link debuggingIn-depth familiarity with AI networking switch architectures and Layer 1/Layer 2 configurationsExperience working with 800G optical modules and 51.2T-class switches (1.6T and next-gen systems strongly preferred)Solid understanding of ASIC architectures and system integration; chip-level and EIC-level experience is a strong plusExperience interfacing with foundries and understanding semiconductor development and manufacturing flowsActive or prior involvement in industry standards (e.g., MSA participation) is highly desirableProven ability to work across cross-functional and geographically distributed teamsExperience building and managing ecosystem partnerships, with the ability to assess and strategically vet partner capabilitiesPrevious experience at a leading optical transceiver or networking systems company is highly preferredExcellent analytical,...