Principal Optical Engineer - AI Infrastructure

Supports the design, deployment, and operations of a large-scale global Oracle cloud computing environment (Oracle Cloud Infrastructure - OCI). Primarily focused on development and support of AI cluster network fabric and GPU compute server systems through a combination of a deep level understanding of optical networking at the protocol and hardware level coupled with programming skills to support the intensive automation required to operate a production environment. As OCI is a cloud-based network with a global footprint, this support will include hundreds of thousands of network devices and GPUs with high-speed optical links supporting millions of servers, connected over a mix of dedicated back end and front-end network infrastructure, backbone and the Internet.

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Job Responsibilities:

• Provide technical leadership to engineering teams in the development, deployment and validation of high-speed optical transceivers (short reach to long haul), fiber optic components, passive optical components and fiber assemblies.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of system requirements and translate them into detailed design specifications.
• Perform simulations and modeling to optimize transceiver performance and system integration.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, test engineering, manufacturing) to ensure deployment success.
• Coordinate with qualification teams and develop and execute comprehensive test plans to evaluate link performance and reliability for high availability of AI clusters and maximize workload performance.
• Conduct failure analysis, root cause engineering investigations and remediations/fixes with vendors and internal teams for production issues (HW/SW/FW).
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in optical technology, industry trends, and emerging standards (IEEE, OIF, and industry MSAs.). Participate in industry forums.
• Support source selection and vendor due diligence by providing technical expertise
• Contribute to roadmap development for next generation interconnects

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in the design, development. testing and installation of optical transceivers, fiber optic components, and passive optical components.
• Understanding of cloud infrastructure, server and switch platforms
• Deep understanding of optical communication principles, including modulation formats, fiber optics, lasers, optical receivers, and link budgets.
• Proficiency in optical simulation and modeling tools (e.g., OptiSystem, RSoft, VPI).
• Extensive experience with optical test and measurement equipment and methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of industry standards (IEEE, OIF, industry MSAs) and their impact on product development.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with high-speed optical interconnect technologies (100G, 400G, 800G, etc.).
• Knowledge of transceiver design, optical packaging, assembly processes, lasers and failure modes.
Track record of successful product development and commercialization.

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