Principal Engineer – Test & Development (Penang, Malaysia)

Position Overview

The Principal Engineer, Test & Development is responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving test solutions for optoelectronic and photonic products from research and development through mass production. This role involves hands-on testing, data analysis, test automation, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure robust, repeatable, and production-ready test processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop, evaluate, and implement testing strategies and procedures for optoelectronic products across R&D, qualification, and mass production stages.
• Perform optical, electro-optical (DC/RF), and photonic integrated circuit (PIC) testing and characterization.
• Design, set up, maintain, and improve test systems, fixtures/jigs, and measurement instrumentation within the Photonics Test Lab.
• Analyze measurement data and generate technical documentation including test reports, GR&R, and tester buy-off reports.
• Identify and drive improvements in test methodologies, automation, and standardization to enhance efficiency and repeatability.
• Conduct hands-on troubleshooting, validation, and failure analysis using electrical and optical laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners to support product development, qualification, and manufacturing readiness.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Photonics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in test engineering, development, or characterization of electrical, optical, or optoelectronic systems.
• Strong knowledge of electrical and optical testing methodologies, laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Microsoft Excel, JMP, or equivalent statistical software.
• Knowledge of scripting or programming for test automation (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or C/C++) is preferred.
• Practical experience in FPGA design and development is a plus.