ASIC Optical Hardware Systems Test Engineer
cisco systemsSan Jose (CA)
ASIC Optical Hardware Systems Test Engineer
Posted today
cisco systemsSan Jose (CA)
SENIORITY
Lead
About the role
Overview:
In this role you validate and ensure quality for next-generation networking platforms by leading lab bring-up and validation of high-speed optics and Silicon One ASICs. You’ll work with ultra-high-speed SerDes, DCI, and Co-Packaged Optics architectures, developing test automation and debugging complex hardware problems. You partner across ASIC, SI, board design, and manufacturing teams to push performance, cost, and reliability. This role offers hands-on impact in a cutting-edge optics domain. Compensation / Benefits Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with Cisco matching Paid parental leave Paid time off (vacation, sick, holidays) RSU grants eligible Volunteer time off
Responsibilities:
Lead bring-up, validation, and characterization of Silicon One ASICs integrated with high-speed optical transceivers and CPO/NPO engines Measure eye quality, BER, and link margins for 112G/224G PAM4 SerDes and optical links Develop and maintain test automation scripts in Python, C, or C++ to control lab equipment and automate test workflows Perform system stress testing across temperature, voltage, and traffic corners to ensure stability Debug and root-cause hardware, signal integrity, and optical link issues during prototype bring-up and validation Collaborate cross-functionally with ASIC architecture, SI, board design, software/diagnostics, and manufacturing teams throughout bring-up to production
Key requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical engineering, Photonics, Computer Engineering, or related field (minimum) 7+ years of relevant industry experience (or Master’s with 4+ years, PhD with 1+ years) Hands-on lab bring-up, system-level validation, and hardware testing of high-speed networking or electro-optic hardware Strong understanding of optical transceivers, optical link budgets, and high-speed SerDes (56G/112G+ PAM4) Experience with standard lab instrumentation (VNAs, TDR, sampling scopes, BERTs, optical power meters, spectrum analyzers) Curiosity and dedication in a lab environment Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities Multifunctional communication skills High-speed SerDes (56G/112G+ PAM4) and optical transceivers Eye and BER measurement and optical link budgeting Lab instrumentation (VNAs, TDR, scopes, BERTs, power meters, spectrum analyzers)
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