Microwave Photonics Application Engineer

Menhir Photonics is a dynamic Swiss laser manufacturer offering laser solutions of unprecedented robustness and reliability to customers around the globe. Based in Switzerland, our team has strong expertise in the development and production of ultrafast lasers for the markets of aerospace, telecom, and metrology. For our ambitious business scale-up we are looking for a Microwave Photonics Application Engineer.

General Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated RF & Microwave Photonics Application Engineer to support the integration of ultrafast lasers into cutting-edge RF and microwave photonic systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in photonics and microwave technologies and will work closely with our customers to develop and optimize ultrafast laser-based solutions for RF and microwave applications such as high-capacity communications, radar systems, and precision timing for next-generation networks. This position will also involve system-level engineering, experimental validation, and direct technical support for external partners.

Your primary duties and responsibilities

• Design and implement RF and microwave signal generation in photonic systems utilizing Menhir Photonics ultrafast lasers
• Develop and characterize RF stabilization and frequency-locking strategies to enhance system performance of Menhir Photonics lasers and frequency combs
• Contribute to the integration of ultrafast lasers into applications such as radar and sensing systems, precision timing distribution, network synchronization (including 6G), and high-capacity optical and wireless communications
• Perform comprehensive RF signal characterization, including phase noise, amplitude noise, timing jitter, and spectral purity analysis
• Define and specify requirements for microwave components, working with suppliers to ensure compatibility with ultrafast laser systems
• Provide hands-on technical support to customers for system integration, including remote and on-site troubleshooting and optimization, to assist customers in integrating Menhir Photonics ultrafast lasers into RF and microwave photonic architectures
• Conduct optical testing, including optical spectrum analysis, pulse characterization (duration, chirp), and noise (intensity and phase noise) measurements
• Develop application notes and technical documentation to support system integration and troubleshooting
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate photonic and microwave components, working with R&D, product development, and customer support teams
• Understand the health, safety, and environmental requirements and regulations
• Support high quality standards and practices according to ISO9001

Your background

• PhD (or MSc with relevant industrial experience) in photonics, optical engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline

• Experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Ultrafast lasers and frequency combs

• Precision metrology and timing

• Radar and network synchronization

• Locking and stabilization techniques

Technical Expertise

• Experience with RF and microwave photonics and stabilization electronics
• Hands-on experience with RF and optical signal stabilization techniques, including phase-locked loops and active feedback systems
• Strong understanding of ultrafast laser and frequency comb technologies and their role in timing synchronization and RF stabilization
• Proficiency with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, phase noise analyzers, and high-speed oscilloscopes
• Experience with optical and electrical characterization of high-frequency signals, including jitter, noise analysis, and phase stability

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex RF and photonic systems
• Ability to work cross-functionally with R&D, sales, and customer support teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation, customer interactions, and presentations

Conditions

• The position is 80% to 100% (34-42 hours/week)
• Onsite
• The workplace is located at our headquarters in Stettbach (Dübendorf), Switzerland
• The preferred starting date is May 2025

Fast growing start-up, transportation subsidy, flexible working hours, team events, lots of potential for learning and growth!

If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity and getting to know us, please email your CV and cover letter in English and tell us more about why you're a good fit for this position to our "talents" email on the website. Please reference "MPZH041" in the subject line. We look forward to hearing from you!

Applications will be accepted until April 11, 2025.

Applications from headhunters or third parties will not be considered.