Optical Network Engineer

About the team:

OpenAI’s Hardware organization develops AI-native silicon and system-level solutions for the unique demands of advanced AI workloads. Building on efforts like Jalapeño, the team is developing future generations of AI-native silicon and tightly integrated systems to power the next generation of frontier models. By co-designing chips, systems, tools, and methodologies, the team helps deliver faster, more efficient, and production-ready hardware for OpenAI’s supercomputing platform.

About the role:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Network Engineer to lead Laser related work within our optical interconnect efforts for large-scale compute systems. The role also requires broad, hands-on optical validation experience across IM/DD-based interconnects, working from lab characterization through production readiness and scaled deployment.

In this role you will:

• Drive laser-focused requirements and technical direction within the broader optical interconnect roadmap.

• Lead evaluation and validation of optical components and subsystems, including laser-based elements, in lab and production-representative environments.

• Support end-to-end optical testing for IM/DD interconnects (e.g., module/system bring-up, characterization, debug, and readiness for scale).

• Work with external partners to align on development milestones, performance targets, and quality expectations.

• Own technical issue triage and resolution across performance, reliability, and manufacturability topics.

• Collaborate across internal teams to support integration, rollout, and operational success at scale.

You might thrive in this role if you have:

• Strong experience in laser-focused optical engineering (development, validation, manufacturing readiness, or field support).

• Broad hands-on background with IM/DD optical technologies and optical test/debug workflows.

• Experience working with external suppliers/manufacturing partners and production-oriented execution.

• Demonstrated ability to debug complex technical issues using data-driven methods.

• Clear written and verbal communication; ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders.

• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field preferred (or equivalent industry experience).

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