Director of Laser System Development

About the Role

This role will lead Neurophos’ C-band high-power laser development programs. This is a senior position requiring deep technical expertise in laser physics and the ability to drive complex photonic device development from architecture through productization. The Director will own end-to-end development of high-power laser systems designed to meet output power, coherence, and spectral purity requirements for our next-generation optical AI compute platform.

Location: Austin, TX or San Jose, CA. Full-time onsite position.

Responsibilities

• Laser System Architecture & Development: Lead the design, development, and optimization of high-power laser systems operating in the C-band (1550 nm).
• Program & Team Leadership: Build, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary laser engineering team spanning laser physics, photonic integration, packaging, and test.
• Vendor & Partner Management: Manage external foundries, vendors, and module assembly partners throughout the development lifecycle.
• Technology & Innovation: Stay at the forefront of C-band laser technology and drive IP generation and protect proprietary innovations.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field. M.S. with extensive industry experience will be considered.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in laser and photonic device/system development, with at least 4 years in technical leadership or management roles.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with high-power laser development, including design, foundry engagement, device characterization, and qualification.
• Deep expertise in C-band laser physics and system integration, including high-output-power architectures targeting narrow linewidth, low RIN, and high SMSR.

Skills

Preferred skills include proficiency with test and measurement systems relevant to coherent laser characterization and strong background in optical system-level design.

Benefits

• 100% coverage of base health plan premiums for you and your dependents, plus HSA contributions.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 401(k) matching and stock option opportunities.
• Full suite of voluntary benefits, including Dental, Vision, Life, Hospital, Critical Illness, and Accident insurance.
• Personalized Benefits: Choose the plans that fit your life and take the cash back for those that don’t.