Technical Program Manager

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionTechnical Program Manager
About us
nEye.ai, a well-funded optical switch startup, is poised to revolutionize the future of data centers. nEye’s MEMS-based silicon photonics optical circuit switches (OCS) eliminate critical bottlenecks in AI processing by enabling direct optical connections among thousands of GPUs and memory units. The company's OCS is an ultra-low power consumption, high radix, compact chip-scale design, offering hyperscale data centers enhanced performance, efficiency, and scalability.
Role Overview 
We’re seeking a Lead Hardware Engineer to drive the design and development of advanced digital and embedded control systems for nEye’s next- optical switching platforms.
This role complements our existing ASIC design leadership by focusing on embedded controller architecture, memory systems (Flash, DDR), high-speed interfaces, and overall digital board design. While some FPGA integration is required, the primary focus is on robust microcontroller/processor-based control systems, including redundant architectures. You’ll work hands-on designing, implementing, and validating high-performance digital hardware and embedded systems that bridge the optical, ASIC, and software domains. The ideal candidate is a seasoned, hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment and loves translating complex concepts into elegant, reliable hardware.Key Responsibilities

• Own Cross-Functional Technical Programs: Lead programs spanning MEMS, SiPh, CMOS, packaging, process integration, test, reliability, firmware, and manufacturing. Translate system requirements into physics-based engineering tasks. Maintain a live, risk-aware program plan across all milestones.
• Technical Expertise: Act as a technical reviewer and thought partner in core engineering disciplines. 
• Build Correct Task Lists & Dependencies: Define the real engineering work, identify scope gaps, and spot long poles. Maintain accurate schedules with physics-based reasoning.
• Technical Risk Management: Identify and quantify cross-functional risks, create realistic mitigation plans, and escalate issues early with defined verification/closure steps.
• Manufacturing, Foundry, and OSAT Interface: Drive NPI and production ramp. Coordinate lots, masks, builds, and tests. Ensure vendor qualification and track process changes/impacts.
• Communication & Alignment: Provide clear, structured updates to leadership and stakeholders. Maintain documentation, decision logs, and risk registers. Run productive meeting and ensure timely and seamlessly alignment

Required Qualifications

• BS/MS/PhD in a relevant technical field such as MEMS, Photonics, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering (EE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), or equivalent.
• 10+ years of engineering experience in one or more of the following domains: MEMS design, process integration, and failure analysis (FA); Silicon photonics design, test, or manufacturing; Optical/precision packaging and advanced module assembly; CMOS technology.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical programs and drive them from initial concept through NPI to high-volume manufacturing (mass production).
• Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional hardware development teams.
• Strong engineering fundamentals encompassing optical, electrical, and mechanical domains.
• Experience with NPI processes and production.
• Comfortable interpreting technical documentation, including device schematics, process flows, layout files, and test specifications.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across internal functional teams and with external partners.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience in MEMS + SiPh coupling systemsPrior ownership of wafer-to-module development programs.
• Experience with external FA labs, OSATs, foundriesUnderstanding of DOE, SPC, PFMEA/DFMEA.
• Prior startup experience or evidence of fast execution in ambiguous environments.

Starting salary and title will depend on, and be commensurate with, relevant experience, skills, training, education, market demands, and the ultimate job duties and requirements.nEye is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to , , , age, , sexual , , origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.