Optical Component Engineer

In breve

Cisco is seeking an Optical Component Engineer to join its optical transport and transceiver development team. The role sits within a highly collaborative, cross‑functional environment that brings together engineering, operations and supply‑chain groups to create next‑generation optical technologies for Cisco's networking portfolio. The engineer will be responsible for qualifying optical devices and assembly processes across the product lifecycle. Daily tasks include technical assessment of suppliers and emerging technologies, conducting design and process reviews, performing audits for manufacturing readiness, and developing qualification plans to address reliability risks. The position also owns quality, reliability and manufacturability of wavelength‑line‑management (WLM) line cards, subsystems, circuit packs, optical sub‑modules and transceivers from design through end‑of‑life, while partnering with global supply‑management teams to shape commodity strategy and drive corrective actions on component failures. Candidates must hold at least an MSc in Optical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science or a related discipline, with a PhD preferred. A minimum of five years' experience in optics is required, specifically with WLM technology (design, assembly and reliability of line cards, sub‑systems, circuit packs, daughter cards and related sub‑modules such as EDFA, DGE, WXC, OTDR, OCM, OSC) and optical transceiver technology (active and passive components, gain chips, lasers, photodiodes, tunable lasers, SFP, AAWGs, etc.). Applicants need solid knowledge of optoelectronics, circuit‑pack/module assembly, manufacturing and reliability qualification, as well as a strong grasp of the physics, failure modes and reliability engineering of optical sub‑assemblies and semiconductors. Proven ability to work in multi‑functional teams and with external suppliers, coupled with excellent communication, data‑presentation and influencing skills, is essential. Preferred qualifications include expertise in optical component and semiconductor failure analysis, experience resolving reliability and assembly‑process issues, familiarity with 8D or model‑based problem‑solving methods, and knowledge of statistical process control and data analysis. The role offers the chance to influence critical technology development and commodity strategy across Cisco's product platforms, within a global, innovative company that emphasizes teamwork, empathy and limitless growth opportunities. What the role asks for: - MSc in Optical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science or related field - PhD preferred - Minimum 5 years optics experience (WLM and transceiver technology) - Experience with design, assembly and reliability of optical line cards and subsystems - Knowledge of optoelectronics, circuit‑pack/module assembly processes - Understanding of reliability engineering and quality metrics - Strong communication and influencing abilities - Nice‑to‑have: optical failure analysis expertise - Nice‑to‑have: 8D or model‑based problem‑solving experience - Nice‑to‑have: statistical process control and data analysis knowledge