# New Product Introduction Engineer, Optics and Cables at Nexthop AI

- Company: Nexthop AI
- What the company does: Backed by a16z, Kleiner Perkins and Lightspeed.
- Company website: https://nexthop.ai/
- Type: Startups (AI role)
- Level: Mid level
- Location: Santa Clara, California
- Work setup: On-site
- Posted: 2026-07-21
- Apply by: 2026-10-08
- Apply: https://nexthopai.bamboohr.com/careers/99
- Page: https://www.1752.vc/careers/jobs/nexthop-ai-new-product-introduction-engineer-optics-and-cables/

## About the role

In high-speed networking, cutting-edge ASICs perform only as well as the optical path they connect to. As a Hardware Product Engineer for Optics and Cables, you own the technical product lifecycle of every optics and cable component in our systems. You bridge the gap between system design and factory-level execution.

## What they're looking for

- Technical Audits: Lead deep-dive technical audits of vendor facilities, assessing and improving upon their laser burn-in processes, fiber termination quality, and cleanroom discipline
- Incoming Quality Control (IQC): Define the technical gate for all optical components entering the factory. Establish golden standards to ensure incoming modules aren't just within spec but optimized for our systems
- Experience: 8+ years in Hardware Engineering or Optical Product Engineering, specifically with high-speed (400G+) transceivers and cables
- Domain Expertise: Expert-level knowledge of optical connector types (MPO, LC, EBO), fiber physics, and transceiver architectures (QSFP-DD, OSFP). Experience with high-speed switches
- Technical Authority: Proven track record of auditing vendors and establishing factory-level optical test methodologies and transitioning complex lines to overseas Contract Manufacturers
- Tooling Knowledge: Proficiency with optical scopes, bit error rate testers (BERT), and automated fiber inspection systems and product fixturing

Tags: Engr HW