At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on optical testing and collaborate on innovative optical systems.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Microsoft Research Cambridge, pushing the boundaries of technology.
- Benefits: Competitive daily pay, hybrid work model, and opportunities for skill development.
- Other info: Exciting environment with potential for career growth and collaboration with industry experts.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects that shape the future of AI infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Experience in photonic testing and strong analytical skills required.
Please note that this is a contract role providing services to Microsoft through external staffing partners of Allegis Global Solutions (AGS). If you are selected for this role, you will be employed by AGS and will not be an employee of Microsoft.
We are seeking an Optical Test Engineer to work with enabling technologies for next-generation optical interconnects. The role combines hands‑on optical and electrical measurements, test system design, data analysis, and close collaboration with device development teams from early prototyping through qualification. The successful candidate will work with world‑class optical, electronic, and process designers at Microsoft Research Cambridge to evaluate new device concepts through rigorous testing and measurement. This work together with partners across Microsoft product teams and external vendors will help create disruptive solutions for Future AI Infrastructure. This stimulating environment is the ideal place to grow their practical skills and challenge their ingenuity.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct characterization measurements on existing lab setups, troubleshooting, modifying and refining where necessary to ensure robust and repeatable results.
- Design and build analysis pipelines to draw robust conclusions from experimental data.
- Propose, design and build new lab-based optical systems to test optoelectronic devices and passive optical components, including redesign of existing setups for increased automation.
- Collaborate with optics, electronics and systems experts to define test requirements and review characterization results.
Qualifications And Experience
- Hands‑on experience in photonic and/or optoelectronic device testing.
- Strong background in optical testing, including fiber characterization and optical coupling techniques.
- Demonstrably strong analytical skills with attention to measurement quality and repeatability.
- Proficiency in data analysis and test automation using software tools, e.g. Python.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optics/Optical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field.
Additional Details
- Location: Hybrid (68-80% Onsite. Cambridge, UK)
- Duration: 1 year
- Shift Timings: Monday – Friday (Business Hours)
- Pay Range: £276 - £313 /day (PAYE)
- Weekly Schedule: 40 hours
Optical Systems Test Engineer (Research) (contract) in Cambridge employer: Microsoft
As an Optical Systems Test Engineer at AGS, you will be part of a dynamic team working closely with Microsoft Research in Cambridge, a hub of innovation and cutting-edge technology. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth through hands-on experience and exposure to world-class experts in the field. With a focus on developing disruptive solutions for Future AI Infrastructure, this role offers a unique opportunity to enhance your skills while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in optical interconnects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Systems Test Engineer (Research) (contract) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the optical and photonics fields. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues at Microsoft or AGS. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got hands-on experience with optical testing or data analysis, create a portfolio showcasing your projects. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps us see your practical skills in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of optical systems and testing methodologies. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you’ll likely need to collaborate with various teams. We want to see how you think and solve problems!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to dive into the exciting work at Microsoft Research Cambridge.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Systems Test Engineer (Research) (contract) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Optical Systems Test Engineer role. Highlight your hands-on experience in photonic and optoelectronic device testing, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about optical systems and how your background makes you a perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention your analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools like Python.
Showcase Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various teams, make sure to highlight any past experiences where you collaborated with others. Whether it’s working with optics, electronics, or systems experts, we want to see how you can contribute to a team environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you one step closer to joining our exciting team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Microsoft
✨Know Your Optical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of photonic and optoelectronic device testing. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like fiber characterisation and optical coupling. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical skills during the interview. Bring examples of how you've ensured measurement quality and repeatability in past projects. If you can, share a story about a time you solved a tricky problem using data analysis or test automation.
✨Get Hands-On with Lab Setups
Since this role involves designing and building lab-based optical systems, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience. Discuss any previous projects where you modified or refined setups for better results. This will highlight your practical skills and creativity.
✨Collaboration is Key
This position requires close collaboration with various teams, so be prepared to discuss your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you’ve worked with optics, electronics, or systems experts to define test requirements and review results. This will show you’re a team player who can thrive in a collaborative environment.
