Principal Module & Failure Analysis Lead

Principal Module & Failure Analysis Lead | Photonics
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Salary: $250K - $270K

I’m working with an innovative photonics company developing next-generation optical technologies for AI and high-performance computing. They’re looking for a Principal Module & FA Lead to own module integration and system-level failure analysis as they scale towards volume production.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead module integration across mechanical, electrical, thermal, firmware, and optical/photonics domains.
• Drive complex, cross-functional failure analysis and root-cause investigations.
• Apply structured problem-solving techniques, including DOE, fishbone analysis, and first-principles modelling.
• Establish integration procedures, FA processes, documentation, and tracking systems.
• Drive corrective actions through to actual design and process improvements.
• Support the transition from pre-production into high-volume contract manufacturing.

What they're looking for:

• BS +15 / MS +12 / PhD +9 years in systems engineering, hardware failure analysis, or related disciplines.
• Strong cross-domain hardware knowledge and hands-on troubleshooting experience.
• Proven experience leading complex root-cause investigations and practical DOE.
• Ability to develop first-principles models and work across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Track record of driving corrective actions and building processes from the ground up.

Photonics, optical packaging, fiber coupling, die attach, or wire bonding experience would be a strong advantage.