Principal Engineer, SerDes Validation

Ayar Labs

Ayar Labs

San Jose, CA, USA

Posted on May 22, 2026
Position: Principal Engineer, SerDes Validation
Location: San Jose, CA
Job Id: 588
# of Openings: 0
Principal Engineer, SerDes Validation
Location: San Jose (on-site)
Ayar Labs is shattering AI data bottlenecks by moving data at the speed of light. As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light instead of electricity to move data faster, further, and with a fraction of the energy needed to fuel the explosive growth of AI models.
Backed by industry giants like NVIDIA, AMD and Intel and manufactured in partnership with the world’s leading semiconductor ecosystem, Ayar Labs’ co-packaged optics solution is key to unleashing next-generation AI scale-up architectures.
We are seeking a System validation expert to spearhead the validation efforts that ensure our groundbreaking products meet and exceed both component and system-level requirements. This pivotal role will drive the transition of our technology from initial release to customer deployment, guaranteeing a seamless and high-performance experience for our clients.
If you are a seasoned validation expert who thrives on solving complex technical problems and is passionate about delivering high-quality products, we invite you to apply and join our team of innovators. Ayar Labs is pushing the boundaries of optical interconnect technology with our revolutionary multi-wavelength sources and CMOS chiplets.
Essential Functions:
  • Lead Validation Strategy: Define and implement comprehensive validation methodologies that guarantee high-speed performance of our optical chiplets, both at component and system-level. This includes developing test plans, defining success criteria, and selecting appropriate test equipment and methodologies.
  • Drive Product Bring-up: Collaborate with Design Engineering to bring up cutting-edge silicon photonic and laser products, troubleshooting and resolving complex technical issues on the optical SerDes devices.
  • Validate Component and System Performance: Perform rigorous design validation on new chips and products through high-speed characterization of electro-optic systems using signal integrity (SI) and eye analysis techniques.
  • Lead New Product Introduction (NPI): Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to identify and implement product improvements through bench characterization and ensure successful transition of products from development to mass production.
  • Deliver Customer-Ready Documentation: Author and maintain comprehensive customer-facing validation reports and documentation that clearly communicate product performance and reliability.
  • Develop Test Software and Infrastructure: Create and maintain software scripts and test hardware stations required for efficient and comprehensive validation.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
  • 10+ years of experience with component and system test equipment (BERT, DCA, OSA, etc.) and standard signal quality metrics (TDECQ, SRS, URS).
  • 5+ years of experience in programming languages (Python, etc.) for test automation and data analysis.
  • Deep understanding of communication protocols and standards (Ethernet, PCIe, etc.).
  • Proven ability to analyze complex technical problems, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions.
  • Understanding of data analysis, process control, and statistical methods.
  • Experience with SoC validation planning, bring-up, debugging, and optimization.
  • Experience with high-speed SerDes and their characterization and optimization.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in semiconductor laser & photonic device validation.
  • Working knowledge of optical transceiver packaging and integration challenges.
  • Strong project management and communication skills.
Salary range: $180,000 - $230,000
NOTE TO RECRUITERS:
Principals only. We are not accepting resumes from recruiters for this position. Remuneration for recruiting activities is only applicable subject to a signed and executed agreement between the parties. Please don’t send candidates to Ayar Labs, and do not contact our managers.
Ayar Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is strongly committed to all policies which will afford equal opportunity employment to all qualified persons without regard to age, sex, national origin, race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. It is the policy of Ayar Labs to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. Veterans are more than welcome and encouraged to apply.
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