Optical Network Engineer

ABOUT THE TEAM: OpenAI’s Hardware organization develops AI-native silicon and system-level solutions for the unique demands of advanced AI workloads. Building on efforts like Jalapeño, the team is developing future generations of AI-native silicon and tightly integrated systems to power the next generation of frontier models. By co-designing chips, systems, tools, and methodologies, the team helps deliver faster, more efficient, and production-ready hardware for OpenAI’s supercomputing platform. ABOUT THE ROLE: We are seeking an experienced Optical Network Engineer to lead Laser related work within our optical interconnect efforts for large-scale compute systems. The role also requires broad, hands-on optical validation experience across IM/DD-based interconnects, working from lab characterization through production readiness and scaled deployment. IN THIS ROLE YOU WILL: - Drive laser-focused requirements and technical direction within the broader optical interconnect roadmap. - Lead evaluation and validation of optical components and subsystems, including laser-based elements, in lab and production-representative environments. - Support end-to-end optical testing for IM/DD interconnects (e.g., module/system bring-up, characterization, debug, and readiness for scale). - Work with external partners to align on development milestones, performance targets, and quality expectations. - Own technical issue triage and resolution across performance, reliability, and manufacturability topics. - Collaborate across internal teams to support integration, rollout, and operational success at scale. YOU MIGHT THRIVE IN THIS ROLE IF YOU HAVE: - Strong experience in laser-focused optical engineering (development, validation, manufacturing readiness, or field support). - Broad hands-on background with IM/DD optical technologies and optical test/debug workflows. - Experience working with external suppliers/manufacturing partners and production-oriented execution. - Demonstrated abilit

Department: Scaling; Team: Hardware