Application Engineer – Silicon Photonic/Optical engineer

About Advantest

Advantest America Inc. is part of Advantest Corporation, the world’s largest provider of automated test equipment (ATE) for the semiconductor industry. The company designs and manufactures cutting-edge testing solutions that help semiconductor manufacturers ensure the quality and performance of their products. Advantest is known for innovation, reliability, and a strong commitment to supporting its customers and employees.

Our Purpose & Values

• Mission: Improve lives through advanced technologies and customer-focused innovation.
• Vision: Be the most trusted and valued test solution provider in the semiconductor value chain.
• Core Values:

I- Innovation is our Lifeblood

N- Number One is Our Aspiration

T- Trust is our Foundation

E- Empowerment is Our Motivation

G- Global is our Reach

R- Respect is our Heart

I - Inclusion and Diversity is Our Commitment

T- Teamwork is our Approach

Y- Yes is Our Attitude

Why Join Us

At Advantest, innovation starts with people. We’re looking for curious, capable, and collaborative individuals ready to shape the future of semiconductor technology. You’ll join a global team where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a real impact.

We foster an integrity-centered culture, where honesty, inclusion, and respect are the foundation of everything we do.

Job Description:
We are looking for a Senior Application Engineer with a strong background in optical engineering and hands-on experience in testing silicon photonics devices. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with using optical and electrical test equipment (e.g., OSA, power meters, VNAs, probe stations) and Automatic Test Equipment (ATE), specifically utilizing Advantest's V93000 hardware and SmarTest 8 software. This role will be critical in developing, implementing, and optimizing test solutions for next-generation silicon photonics products.

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and debug test programs for silicon photonics devices using ancillary equipment and the Advantest V93000 ATE platforms using SmarTest 8 software.
• Design and implement test methodologies for optical and electrical characterization of silicon photonics components and integrated circuits.
• Collaborate with design, product, and manufacturing teams to define test requirements and improve test coverage and efficiency.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot yield issues, and implement solutions to optimize test processes.
• Design and develop test hardware, including probe cards, device loadboards, and optical fixturing.
• Characterize and validate new test equipment and instrumentation for silicon photonics testing.
• Develop and implement test setups for optical component validation.
• Drive continuous improvement in test processes, documentation, and best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Stay current with advancements in silicon photonics and optical technologies.   

Requirements:

• Bachelor's, Master's or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in semiconductor test engineering.
• Proven experience in testing silicon photonics devices, including optical and electrical measurements.
• Strong background in optical engineering principles and their application to device testing.
• Extensive hands-on experience with Automatic Test Equipment (ATE).
• Demonstrated expertise with Advantest V93000 ATE hardware.
• Proficiency in developing test programs using Advantest SmarTest 8 software.
• Solid understanding of semiconductor device physics and test methodologies.
• Experience with data analysis tools and scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Additional Skills Preferred (but not required):

• Experience with high-speed digital and RF testing.
• Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) and yield management.
• Experience working in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with optical alignment and coupling techniques for testing.

Advantest Benefits Overview

• Global Bonus Program: Performance-based bonuses paid twice yearly.
• 401(k) Plan: Pre-tax retirement savings with company match.
• Medical, Dental & Vision: Multiple plan options including HMO, PPO, and HSA.
• Income Protection: Life, disability, and accident insurance at no cost.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care options.
• Employee Assistance Program: Free support for personal and work-related issues.
• Flexible Time Off: Accrual starts at hire, increases with service.
• Paid Holidays: 13 company holidays annually.