Test Engineer - Laser Device Characterization & Automation

Test Engineer – Laser Device Characterization & Automation

Location: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Department: Research & Development (R&D)
Employment Type: Full-Time

Ranovus is a semiconductor company with global operations helping power the data behind next generation AI and data center networks. We design and build advanced hardware that moves massive amounts of information quickly and efficiently between computer systems in data centers around the world. Our technology improves performance while reducing energy use and environmental impact, supporting the rapid growth of AI and cloud services. At Ranovus, you’ll join a collaborative, inclusive team that values learning, flexibility, and meaningful work with global impact. 

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Test Engineer to plan, prepare, and execute electrical, optical, environmental, and reliability testing of laser chips-on-carrier (CoC) devices and related optical assemblies. The successful candidate will develop test plans, prepare samples, perform device characterization, and analyze performance and reliability data.

This role will also involve developing test apparatus, implementing test automation using Python, and creating automated visual inspection processes to support product development and manufacturing. The engineer will work closely with device engineering, packaging, qualification and reliability teams, external packaging suppliers, and third-party test providers to ensure robust characterization and qualification of new products.

Key Responsibilities

Test Planning and Characterization

• Develop test plans and characterization strategies for laser chips-on-carrier devices and related optical assemblies.
• Prepare and manage test samples, including tracking configurations, build history, and test requirements.
• Perform electrical, optical, thermal, and environmental characterization of semiconductor laser devices.
• Execute performance testing including:
  • LIV characterization
  • Spectral measurements
  • Wavelength and power stability testing
  • High-speed modulation characterization
  • Temperature-dependent performance testing
  • Aging and reliability evaluations
• Maintain detailed records of test procedures, conditions, and results.

Device Qualification and Reliability

• Work closely with the Device Qualification and Reliability team to define and execute qualification plans.
• Support reliability programs including accelerated aging, temperature cycling, damp heat, storage, and other environmental stress testing.
• Analyze reliability data to identify degradation mechanisms and performance trends.
• Support failure analysis investigations and root-cause determination.

Test Development and Automation

• Design, develop, and commission test apparatus for characterization and reliability testing.
• Develop automated test systems and data acquisition software using Python and related engineering tools.
• Improve test throughput, repeatability, and data quality through automation and software enhancements.
• Integrate measurement instruments, motion systems, environmental chambers, and machine vision components into automated test platforms.
• Create and maintain software documentation, calibration procedures, and user guides for internally developed systems.

Automated Visual Inspection

• Develop, verify, and document automated visual inspection processes for laser devices.
• Implement machine vision and image analysis techniques for defect detection, dimensional measurement, alignment verification, and process monitoring.
• Establish inspection criteria and acceptance standards in collaboration with engineering and quality teams.
• Validate inspection performance through repeatability, reproducibility, sensitivity, and false-call analysis.
• Generate documentation supporting process qualification and manufacturing release.

Supplier and External Test Coordination

• Interface with external packaging suppliers regarding sample preparation, technical requirements, schedules, and issue resolution.
• Coordinate characterization, qualification, and reliability testing activities with external laboratories and service providers.
• Review externally generated test data and reports to ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Track sample flow, test progress, and deliverables across multiple suppliers and partners.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze experimental data using statistical and engineering methods.
• Generate technical reports and presentations summarizing test results and recommendations.
• Present findings to engineering and management teams.
• Drive continuous improvement of test methodologies, automation tools, and data analysis workflows.

Laboratory Support

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory characterization equipment.
• Develop and improve laboratory procedures, test fixtures, and documentation.
• Ensure testing activities comply with quality and safety requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in semiconductors, photonics, optoelectronics, or laser device testing.
• Hands-on experience characterizing semiconductor lasers or related optoelectronic devices.
• Experience with laboratory instrumentation such as:
  • Source Measure Units (SMUs)
  • Optical Spectrum Analyzers (OSAs)
  • Power meters
  • Oscilloscopes
  • Temperature controllers
  • Environmental test chambers
• Experience with Python programming for test automation, data acquisition, or data analysis.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple technical activities and external suppliers simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with InP-based photonic devices and semiconductor lasers.
• Experience developing automated test systems using Python or similar programming languages.
• Experience with machine vision, image analysis, or automated optical inspection systems.
• Familiarity with laboratory automation, instrument control, and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with Telcordia, JEDEC, or related device qualification standards.
• Knowledge of semiconductor device physics and failure mechanisms.
• Strong technical documentation and report-writing skills.

Personal Attributes

• Highly organized and detail oriented.
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Hands-on approach to problem solving.
• Effective collaborator across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Comfortable working with both internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Passion for developing innovative test and inspection solutions.

What You'll Do

You will play a key role in advancing next-generation laser products from development through qualification. By combining hands-on characterization, automation development, reliability testing, and machine vision inspection, you will help establish the data, tools, and processes needed to bring high-performance laser products into production. Working closely with R&D, qualification and reliability teams, packaging suppliers, and external test providers, you will contribute directly to the successful commercialization of cutting-edge photonic technologies.

Ranovus is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences, including those from equity deserving and underrepresented communities. We are committed to an accessible recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

We are committed to delivering a respectful and transparent candidate experience, with clear and timely communication at every stage of the process. Ranovus Inc. is committed to leveraging new technologies and working efficiently. As a result, artificial intelligence systems may be used to support elements of our hiring process. These tools are designed to enhance consistency and efficiency, not replace human judgment. All hiring decisions are made by people, guided by care, context, and fairness. 

Thank you for your interest in joining Ranovus. We look forward to connecting with you.