Principal Laser Controls Engineer at Ayar Labs in San Jose, CA

Principal Laser Controls Engineer

Role Overview

We are seeking a Principal Laser Controls Engineer to define and drive the control architecture for advanced laser-based optical modules. This role demands deep expertise in laser physics, control systems, and embedded implementation. You will own the technical vision for laser control—spanning optical power regulation, current control, thermal stabilization, and wavelength calibration—ensuring robust, scalable, and production-ready solutions across the full product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and own the end-to-end laser module control architecture, including:

  • APC (Automatic Power Control) loops for stable optical output
  • ACC (Automatic Current Control) strategies for laser drive optimization
  • Automatic calibration frameworks (power, current, aging compensation, temperature drift)
  • TEC (Thermoelectric Cooler) control for wavelength and thermal stability

• Lead the design, modeling, and optimization of laser control loops, accounting for:

  • Laser non-linearities (L-I curves, threshold behavior)
  • Aging, degradation, and environmental variations
  • Noise, stability margins, and transient performance

• Architect closed-loop control strategies that balance performance, reliability, and manufacturability across PVT and lifetime conditions

• Develop and own module embedded laser control firmware, including:

  • Real-time control loops
  • Calibration routines (factory + in-field)
  • Fault detection, protection, and recovery mechanisms

• Establish modeling and correlation frameworks linking simulation to silicon and optical performance

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Controls, or related field

• ~12–15+ years of experience with deep focus on laser systems and control

• Strong expertise in:

  • APC/ACC loop design and optimization
  • Laser behavior (L-I-V characteristics, thermal effects, degradation mechanisms)
  • Feedback control theory and real-world implementation

• Proven experience implementing calibration algorithms (factory and adaptive/in-field)

• Strong embedded firmware background for real-time control systems

• Proficiency in modeling and simulation (MATLAB/Python/Simulink or equivalent), with demonstrated correlation to hardware

• Track record of driving system-level architecture and influencing cross-functional teams

Nice to Have

• Experience with pluggable optical modules and CMIS
• Familiarity with high-speed optical links, SerDes
• Experience with reliability engineering (lifetime drift, burn-in, field performance)
• Exposure to high-volume manufacturing, yield optimization, and test infrastructure

Why Join Us

• Define the control and calibration backbone of next-generation laser products
• High ownership across laser physics, control algorithms, and system integration
• Opportunity to shape product direction in a fast-paced, execution-driven environment

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