Director System Application Engineering

The role

This leader will lead customer-facing system engineering for next-generation AI networking platforms and high-speed optical interconnects. The role involves defining the technical engagement model for deploying 800G and 1.6T optical transceivers across switch architectures.

What you will do

• Build, scale, and lead a high-performing team of system and applications engineers
• Serve as the executive-level technical interface for key customers
• Oversee bring-up, validation, and optimization of optical links
• Lead cross-functional efforts to debug and resolve issues spanning optical modules, DSPs, switches, and system architectures
• Translate customer insights into input for product, engineering, and go-to-market strategies
• Define standards for customer support, escalation management, system validation, and deployment methodologies
• Oversee high-impact evaluations, proof-of-concepts, and design wins
• Guide internal strategy by maintaining expertise in AI networking, optical interconnects, and next-generation switch architectures

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 10+ years of experience in optical systems, networking, or high-speed interconnects, with progressive leadership responsibility
• Deep expertise in optical transceivers, DSP architectures, and high-speed link performance and debugging
• Strong understanding of AI networking systems, including 51.2T and next-generation switch architectures
• Proven track record of leading customer-facing engineering teams and delivering complex system deployments
• Experience with 800G optical modules required
• Exceptional communication and executive presence
• Demonstrated ability to operate cross-functionally and drive alignment across engineering, product, and commercial teams

Nice to have

• 1.6T and next-generation systems strongly preferred
• Background at a leading optical transceiver, networking systems, or hyperscale infrastructure company highly preferred

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Significant equity
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible time off policy
• Opportunity to shape foundational technology powering next-generation AI infrastructure
• Highly experienced, collaborative, and mission-driven team
• Fast-paced, innovative environment with significant leadership impact and career growth

About the company

lumilens is a high-growth, well-funded startup.