Optical Hardware EngineerADTRAN is seeking a highly motivated Optical Hardware Engineer to join our team developing next-generation DWDM optical transport solutions. This role will contribute to the design, evaluation, qualification, and integration of advanced optical components and subsystems used in high-performance optical networking products. The successful candidate will collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines to develop innovative solutions that meet demanding performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost objectives.This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies that enable the future of optical communication networks while participating throughout the entire product development lifecycle.Duties and ResponsibilitiesDefine specifications, evaluate performance, qualify, and integrate passive and active optical components and subsystems.Support the development of DWDM optical communication systems incorporating: DWDM modulesROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers)Wavelength-selective switchesOptical amplifiersLaser and photodetector-based subsystemsAnalyze system performance and support optical design trade-off studies.Collaborate with component suppliers and technology partners to evaluate emerging optical technologies.Design and develop electronic circuits for laser, photodetector, and optical subsystem control.Implement and optimize analog and digital control algorithms.Contribute to mixed-signal hardware development and troubleshooting activities.Provide PCB layout guidance and participate in schematic, layout, and design reviews.Support hardware integration, verification, and product qualification activities.Perform hands-on laboratory testing, characterization, and validation of optical components and subsystems.Develop software tools and automation solutions for: Instrument controlData acquisitionTest monitoringPerformance characterizationCollect, analyze, and interpret test data to identify performance trends and opportunities for improvement.Develop and execute qualification and reliability test plans.Work closely with optical, electrical, mechanical, firmware, software, manufacturing, and quality engineering teams.Drive technical solutions that balance performance, packaging, interface, reliability, and cost requirements.Participate in design reviews and support root-cause analysis and corrective actions when necessary.Create and maintain high-quality engineering documentation, reports, specifications, and test procedures.Required QualificationsBS in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.MS degree is preferred.ExperienceMinimum of 2 years of relevant engineering experience in one or more of the following areas: Optical communicationsTest and measurement systemsHardware developmentMixed-signal electronicsPhotonics or related technologiesTechnical SkillsUnderstanding of optical communication systems and optical networking technologies.Experience with test equipment and laboratory measurement techniques.Knowledge of analog and digital electronics.Experience with mixed-signal circuit design and debugging.Familiarity with laser and photodetector control systems.Ability to analyze technical data and solve complex engineering problems.Software SkillsExperience with one or more of the following is desirable:Visual BasicMicrosoft Excel automationLabVIEWC++Test automation and data acquisition software developmentPreferred QualificationsExperience with DWDM transmission systems.Knowledge of ROADMs, wavelength-selective switching technologies, and optical amplifiers.Familiarity with analog servo-loop control systems.Experience supporting products through the complete development lifecycle from concept through production.Knowledge of optical component reliability and qualification requirements.Familiarity with industry standards including: TelcordiaIECITUExperience working with external vendors and technology suppliers.