Photonics Characterisation Engineer

About This Opportunity

Our talent team is representing a confidential photonics organization in Oxford seeking a skilled Photonics Characterisation Engineer. This is a hands-on laboratory role where you'll design experiments, operate advanced optical test equipment, and transform measurement data into actionable engineering insights that drive product development.

You'll work across die-level and wafer-level characterisation, combining practical bench work with Python-based automation and analysis. This position offers genuine ownership over experimental design, execution, and the evolution of characterisation capabilities within a growing technical team.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to characterise integrated photonic devices and optical structures
• Operate photonic laboratory equipment across diverse measurement configurations
• Conduct both die-level and wafer-level testing using appropriate methodologies
• Analyse experimental datasets using Python and scientific computing libraries
• Develop automation scripts and workflows for data collection and processing
• Translate experimental requirements into practical, repeatable test protocols
• Investigate measurement anomalies, troubleshoot setups, and resolve unexpected results
• Validate data quality and ensure measurements meet engineering standards before release
• Produce clear technical documentation, analysis reports, and experimental summaries
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and system testing teams to support decision-making
• Contribute to laboratory process improvements and test method development
• Take increasing ownership of characterisation activities from planning through delivery

What We're Looking For

Required qualifications:

• MSc, PhD, or equivalent practical experience in Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related discipline
• Strong foundational understanding of optics and photonics principles
• Proven hands-on experience designing and executing experiments
• Laboratory experience in optics, photonics, or similar technical environments
• Demonstrated ability analysing real-world experimental data using Python
• Familiarity with scientific Python libraries (NumPy, SciPy, pandas)
• Practical understanding of experimental uncertainty, measurement quality, and noisy data
• Strong troubleshooting and fault-finding capabilities
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent attention to detail and critical thinking skills
• Clear written and verbal communication abilities
• Comfort presenting technical results to varied audiences

This role requires significant time working physically in the laboratory—this is not primarily a theoretical or simulation position.

Preferred experience:

• Photonic wafer-level test systems or probe stations
• Integrated photonic device characterisation
• Experimental automation using Python
• Optical alignment, calibration, and measurement techniques
• Free-space optics
• Photonic integrated circuit fabrication or semiconductor processes
• Developing reusable experimental or data-analysis tools
• R&D or product development environments
• Startup or rapidly evolving organizational settings
• Agile methodologies, Jira, or similar project management platforms

How We Work With You

When you apply through Get A Job.ai, a member of our recruiting team will review your profile and conduct an initial screening conversation. We'll discuss your experimental background, technical skills, and career objectives to ensure strong alignment with our client's needs.

Once we've confirmed fit, we'll formally submit your candidacy to our client and coordinate all subsequent interview stages. Please do not contact the employer directly—all communication should flow through Get A Job.ai to ensure proper representation and candidacy management.

Location and Work Arrangement

This position is based in Oxford, United Kingdom, and is predominantly on-site with a minimum of four days per week required in the laboratory.

Equal Opportunity

Get A Job.ai is committed to inclusive recruiting practices. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and work to ensure equitable access to opportunities regardless of race, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.