Principal PIC Process Development EngineerAs a Principal PIC Process Development Engineer, you will be a senior individual contributor within Nokia's Optical Components organization, responsible for the development, optimization, and transfer of InP photonic integrated circuit (PIC) and laser fabrication processes for high-volume manufacturing.This role requires deep technical expertise across epitaxial design, semiconductor processing, data-driven manufacturing analysis, and close collaboration with remote fabrication partners. You will play a key role in enabling next-generation optical component technologies that support Nokia's high-capacity optical networking platforms.Your ResponsibilitiesProcess Development & IntegrationLead the design, development, and optimization of InP PIC and laser fabrication processes for high-volume manufacturingDesign and specify epitaxial layer structures in collaboration with device designers and epitaxy suppliersDevelop complete fabrication process flows based on design requirements, tool capabilities, and manufacturing constraintsDrive process integration, ensuring compatibility across metal, semiconductor, and dielectric modulesManufacturing Data & Yield ExcellencePerform extensive data analysis of photonic device, wafer, and process data in a manufacturing environmentApply SPC, process capability analysis (Cp/Cpk), and statistical methods to monitor and improve process performanceLead or contribute to FMEA activities, root cause analysis, and corrective actions for yield and reliability issuesDefine and utilize metrology strategies to ensure robust process controlFab Execution & Cross-Functional CollaborationShepherd wafers successfully through the fab, coordinating closely with test, development, integration, and fabrication engineersAct as a senior technical interface with external or remote fabrication facilities, ensuring alignment on process execution and prioritiesCollaborate with device design, product engineering, and reliability teams to support technology readiness and product rampTechnical Leadership & ImpactProvide technical leadership within the PIC process development domainContribute to continuous improvement of tools, methods, and best practicesMentor junior engineers and support knowledge transfer across the broader teamYour Skills and ExperiencePh.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related fieldMinimum 10 years of experience developing and characterizing materials and devices for optoelectronic applicationsDeep expertise in: PIC device physicsSemiconductor, metal, and dielectric materials properties, characterization methods, and data interpretationOpto-electronic testing of PIC devicesModeling, simulation, scripting, and working with large, complex data setsPhysics-based and data-driven root cause analysisDemonstrated ability to drive cross-functional engineering teams to measurable outcomesExcellent communication and organizational skillsPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting technology transfer to high-volume manufacturingFamiliarity with yield ramp, qualification, and reliability testing for photonic devicesStrong communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical issues across disciplinesExperience working in foundry or captive fab environments supporting compound semiconductor technologiesMore InformationSome of our benefits in US:Corporate Retirement Savings PlanHealth and dental benefitsShort-term disability, and long-term disabilityLife insurance, and AD&D – Company paid 2x base payOptional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)Paid time off for holidays and VacationEmployee Stock Purchase PlanTuition Assistance PlanAdoption assistanceEmployee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource ProgramThe above benefits exclude students.
Disclaimer for US/Canada Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role. All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.About UsAdvancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era.
With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.Learn more about life at Nokia.Our recruitment processWe act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply.
Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia.Job InfoJob Category Applied R&DPosting Date 08/04/2026Degree Level Doctor's degree (e.g PhD)Job Schedule Full timeJob Type ExperiencedJob Identification 38994Role Type Individual contributorSalary Range $160,000 - $263,000 USD+ incentivesExperience level ExperiencedLocations 1322 Bordeaux Drive, Sunnyvale, California, , US (Onsite)Regular or Temporary Regular