Job Title: Characterization Engineer
Location: High Tech Factory, University of Twente Campus, Netherlands
Job Type: Full-Time
About Aluvia Photonics
Aluvia Photonics is a leading pure-play foundry specializing in Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃)-based photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Our mission is to drive innovation in optical communication, sensing, and quantum applications by delivering high-performance photonic solutions. As we expand our capabilities, we are seeking a Characterization Engineer to develop and execute advanced testing and characterization methodologies for our photonic devices.
Job Overview
As a Characterization Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing cutting-edge testing protocols for photonic integrated circuits. Your responsibilities will include setting up and maintaining characterization tools, acquiring and installing testing equipment, and ensuring automated and scalable testing processes. You will collaborate with process engineers, integration engineers, and designers to generate reliable and precise test results that drive improvements in fabrication, integration, and device performance.
Key Responsibilities
Testing Protocol Development: Define and develop automated and scalable testing protocols for photonic integrated circuits to ensure accurate and repeatable characterization processes.
Equipment Acquisition & Setup: Identify, acquire, and install essential testing equipment for photonic characterization, working with third-party vendors and partners to establish efficient automated testing workflows.
Characterization Execution: Perform testing and characterization of photonic devices, including optical, electrical, and material performance measurements, ensuring data accuracy and reliability.
Data Analysis & Interpretation: Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to evaluate device performance, identify trends, and support continuous improvements in manufacturing and design.
Process & Device Optimization: Work closely with process and integration engineers to provide data-driven feedback that enhances fabrication processes and device efficiency.
Troubleshooting & Debugging: Diagnose and resolve technical issues in testing setups to ensure consistent, high-quality measurement results.
Documentation & Reporting: Maintain comprehensive documentation of testing methodologies, procedures, results, and findings to ensure process traceability and reproducibility.
Collaboration & Communication: Engage with multidisciplinary teams, including R&D and production, to align testing methodologies with broader company objectives.
Qualifications & Skills
Required
Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
Hands-on experience with photonic device characterization, including optical, electrical, and material analysis.
Proficiency with optical and electronic testing equipment such as optical spectrum analyzers (OSA), optical power meters, photodetectors, interferometers, and automated probe stations.
Experience with data acquisition and analysis tools (Python, LabVIEW, etc.).
Strong analytical skills and ability to diagnose and resolve complex testing challenges.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to develop, document, and maintain robust testing protocols.
Effective communication skills and a strong ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team.
Preferred
Experience with wafer-level photonic testing and characterization setups.
Familiarity with automation and scripting for test execution to enhance throughput and efficiency.
Knowledge of semiconductor and photonic device physics, particularly in integrated optics.
Experience with statistical data analysis, including Design of Experiments (DOE) and Six Sigma methodologies.
What We Offer
A unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of photonic integrated circuit technology.
Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art testing and characterization tools.
A dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative work environment fostering innovation and professional growth.
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Career development opportunities in a rapidly expanding deep-tech company.
If you are passionate about photonic characterization and eager to drive groundbreaking advancements in integrated optics, we encourage you to apply!
How to Apply
Send your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and motivation to info@aluviaphotonics.com with the subject line: Application – Characterization Engineer.