Job Summary

Optical Test Lab Engineer (Contingent Worker) Org: RTP-NPI Location: Menlo Park, CA (on-site) Engagement type: Contingent Worker (CW Contractor) Meta's mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. Through our family of apps and services, we're building a different kind of company that connects billions of people around the world, gives them ways to share what matters most to them, and helps bring people closer together. Whether we're creating new products or helping a small business expand its reach, people at Meta are builders at heart. About the Role The RTP-NPI team validates next-generation optical transceivers and co-packaged optics (CPO) that power Meta's AI/ML data center networks. We are looking for a hands-on Optical Test Lab Technician to support new product introduction (NPI), DVT/PVT, and characterization test campaigns across a broad range of optical transceiver modules. You will work alongside optical engineers to build and maintain test setups, execute repetitive module-level and system-level tests, and keep the lab running so that engineering schedules stay on track. This role is highly impactful: timely setup and test support directly de-risks NPI milestones and prevents multi-week schedule slips. Responsibilities ● Build, bring up, and maintain optical test setups, including thermal/oven chambers, thermal stream fixtures, OCS (optical circuit switch), and test fixtures. ● Make and verify high-density fiber connections and label them accurately. ● Install, swap, and manage optical modules (e.g., 32 modules per vendor) into switches and test platforms, including moving switches into and between ovens. ● Execute module-level and system-level optical performance tests, and monitor long-running and repetitive test cycles. ● Support NPI, DVT/PVT, and vendor-qualification campaigns across multiple optical module programs. ● Capture, organize, and validate test data; identify outliers; and generate plots/summaries for engineering review. ● Provide timely lab support: troubleshoot and resolve lab/labnet issues, coordinate failed-part RMAs, and assist with PO and test-platform assembly/validation. ● Provide flexible, responsive support during tight test windows, including times when full-time engineers are working remotely. Minimum Qualifications ● Bachelor's degree (or equivalent technical training/experience) in electronics, photonics, optics, or a related technical field. ● Hands-on experience working in a hardware, electro-optical, or photonics lab environment. ● Experience with fiber-optic handling, cable management, and testing automation with Python. ● Comfort following detailed test procedures, performing repetitive tasks accurately, and recording data carefully. ● Ability to work on-site, lift/move equipment, and support time-sensitive lab activities. Preferred Qualifications ● Experience testing optical transceivers/modules (e.g., FR4, DR4, LR4, ZR, CPO) and using optical test equipment. ● Familiarity with environmental/thermal test chambers (ovens), thermal stream, and OCS setups. ● Experience with high-density fiber assembly (hundreds to 1,000+ connections) and DUT setup for NPI/DVT. ● Scripting/data skills (e.g., Python) for test execution and data analysis/plotting. ● Familiarity with NPI/DVT/PVT test flows and vendor-qualification processes. ● Experience working with Ethernet switches (installation, configuration, and CLI operation). ● Proficiency working in a Linux environment (command line, scripting, and test automation). ● Strong organization and communication skills; able to support multiple engineers and programs in parallel.

Key Responsibilities

1. Architect, Design, And Develop Validation Solutions For Post-Silicon Projects Using C, C++, And Python Scripting, Ensuring Product Quality And Reliability Throughout The Development Lifecycle.
2. Serve As A Subject Matter Expert In Post Silicon Validation, Providing Guidance On Methodologies, Tools, And Best Practices To Team Members And Stakeholders.
3. Lead Efforts To Stay Current With Emerging Technologies And Industry Trends, Integrating Relevant Advancements Into Validation Processes To Meet Evolving Quality Standards.
4. Conduct Interviews, Provide Training Sessions, And Offer Mentorship To Build A Skilled Team In Post Silicon Validation Practices, Ensuring A Pipeline Of Proficient Professionals.
5. Gather And Analyze Specifications From Clients, Delivering Tailored Validation Solutions Based On A Deep Understanding Of Silicon Technologies And Industry Needs.
6. Drive Competency Development Initiatives By Envisioning And Articulating Strategic Propositions, Contributing To Collateral Creation, Whitepapers, And Market Trend Analyses.
7. Recommend And Implement Value Creation Initiatives For Clients, Utilizing Industry Best Practices In Post Silicon Validation To Enhance Project Outcomes And Customer Satisfaction.

Skill Requirements

1. Excellent Proficiency In C And C++ Programming Languages, With A Solid Understanding Of Post Silicon Validation Methodologies.
2. Strong Command Of Python Scripting For Automation And Tools Development In Validation Processes.
3. In-Depth Knowledge Of Validation Frameworks, Methodologies, And Industry Standards.
4. Exceptional Problem-Solving Skills, With The Ability To Analyze Complex Technical Issues And Develop Innovative Solutions.
5. Ability To Effectively Communicate Technical Information To Diverse Audiences And Collaborate With Cross-Functional Teams.

Other Requirements

1. Optional But Valuable: Certified Validation Engineer (Cve)
2. Optional But Valuable: Certification In Advanced Post Silicon Validation Techniques