Photonics Specialist

Summary: VIAVI Solutions is seeking a highly creative and hands-on Photonics Specialist to join the CTO Innovation Center in Singapore. This role involves leading fast prototyping and validation of next-generation solutions in optical, photonic, AI-assisted, and high-speed connectivity test technologies, and collaborating with global R&D teams to define the future of test & measurement. Key innovation domains include silicon photonics, co-packaged optics (CPO), DCI/optical interconnects, all-photonic networks, 6G-ready optical test architectures, and AI-automated intelligent test solutions. Duties & Responsibilities: Job Description: VIAVI Solutions is seeking a highly creative and hands-on Photonics Specialist to join the CTO Innovation Center in Singapore. This role involves leading fast prototyping and validation of next-generation solutions in optical, photonic, AI-assisted, and high-speed connectivity test technologies, and collaborating with global R&D teams to define the future of test & measurement. Key innovation domains include silicon photonics, co-packaged optics (CPO), DCI/optical interconnects, all-photonic networks, 6G-ready optical test architectures, and AI-automated intelligent test solutions. Key Responsibilities 1. Rapid Photonic Prototyping Lead the optical communication technology including designing and building prototypes for test solutions for silicon photonics, CPO, optical transceivers, DCI testing, and next-generation photonic test platforms. Conduct feasibility studies, system bring-up, optical characterization, and performance validation. 2. AI-Automated Test Development Lead the development of AI-assisted testing workflows for photonic and high-speed optical systems. Build intelligent test routines using machine learning for calibration, optimization, anomaly detection, and root-cause analysis. Explore autonomous test benches, reinforcement-learning-based test strategies, or digital-twin-driven optical test automation. Prototype AI-driven decision engines that accelerate test throughput and improve measurement accuracy. 3. System Architecture & Concept Innovation Lead the future test architectures definition that combines photonics, software, and AI automation. Investigate new measurement techniques, optical front-ends, and integrated AI signal processing. Translate early-stage concepts into recommendations for product roadmaps and R&D planning. 4. Collaboration & External Engagement Work closely with global VIAVI R&D teams to transition successful prototypes to product development. Support internal demos, technology showcases, and cross-organization innovation initiatives. Thought leadership with engagement in related photonics standardization bodies and forums Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements: Qualifications Required Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Optics/Photonics, Physics, Computer Engineering, or related fields. Knowledge of high-speed optical transmission (100G/400G/800G/1.6T) and advanced modulation formats. Strong hands-on skills with optical instruments (OSA, BERT, AWG, DSO, optical power meters, spectrum analyzers, etc.). Experience with silicon photonics, optical transceivers, DCI systems, CPO, or photonic component testing. Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data analysis, automation, and prototyping. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn) for basic AI prototyping. Strong experimental mindset and passion for fast iterative prototyping. Good communicator, willing to travel Preferred Experience building automated test systems, AI-assisted measurement workflows, or optical digital twins. Background in photonic packaging, alignment automation, or high-precision optical setups. Experience developing ML models for classification, optimization, anomaly detection, or reinforcement learning for control systems. Experience working in innovation labs or early-stage technology concepting roles. VIAVI empowers Service Providers and IT organizations to manage the network lifecycle for complex 5G and Fiber networks with intuitive instruments, systems and technologies; and our expertise in light management and optical coatings help protect the world's bank notes from counterfeiters, enhance the colors you see, and enable advanced technology such as 3D sensing. We are a team of thought leaders who have the freedom to support and innovate and look for new effective and efficient solutions for our customers.