About this role
At Lumilens we are building the critical photonics infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI supercomputing. From chip-to-chip optical interconnects to scalable photonic engines, Lumilens is unlocking a new era of computing faster, cooler, and massively more efficient.
We’re a well-funded startup backed by Mayfield and led by veterans who’ve built and scaled some of the most transformative technologies in the industry. This isn’t incremental innovation; it’s a ground-floor opportunity to rethink the optical layer from the silicon up. You’ll work alongside a team of world-class engineers solving some of the hardest challenges in optics, systems, and scale. Every line of code, every design decision, every breakthrough you help deliver will shape the infrastructure of tomorrow. If you're looking for mission, momentum, and the chance to make an outsized impact, jump on the rocket ship. We’re just getting started. THE ROLE
What You’ll Do: Manage the end-to-end quality relationship with our component supply base, from requirement definition through ongoing performance governance, ensuring the quality and reliability of inbound components.
Partner with R&D and systems engineers to translate product specifications into component-level quality, reliability, and performance requirements
Define and maintain supplier quality agreements (SQAs), control plans, and acceptance test criteria for each component category
Specify incoming quality inspection (IQI) and statistical sampling plans for high-volume components
Lead supplier qualification audits, including process, quality system, and product audits, for new and existing supply chain partners.
Drive first-article approval workflows for new component introductions and engineering changes, ensuring suppliers submit complete documentation packages
Evaluate suppliers' manufacturing process capability (Cpk/Ppk) and reliability data prior to production release
Manage approved vendor lists (AVL) and qualification status across the component portfolio
Own supplier scorecards across quality (DPPM, lot rejection rate), delivery, and responsiveness dimensions
Maintain real-time quality dashboards surfacing incoming yield trends, escape rates, and field return attribution by supplier
Conduct structured quarterly business reviews (QBRs) with key suppliers to review performance and drive improvement plans
Monitor process change notifications (PCNs) and product discontinuation notices (PDNs); assess impact and manage customer notifications
Lead 8D/DMAIC corrective action processes for supplier escapes, field failures, and production stoppages.
Interface with suppliers' engineering and quality teams to ensure timely root cause analysis and robust containment
Coordinate failure analysis with internal reliability and design engineering teams; drive closed-loop feedback to suppliers
Escalate systemic supplier quality risks to program management, operations, and executive leadership
Required Qualifications
BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Materials Science, or related field
7+ years in supplier quality or component engineering in photonics, semiconductors, or high-speed electronics
Hands-on experience with active optical components (lasers, detectors, drivers, TIAs)
Proficiency in quality methods: FMEA, SPC, 8D, MSA, GR&R, PPAP/AQP
Demonstrated experience conducting supplier audits (ISO 9001, TS16949 or equivalent)
Ability to interpret electro-optical and RF component datasheets and qualification reports
Excellent cross-functional communication and supplier negotiation skills
Why Join Us?
This is more than a job. It's a chance to get in on the ground floor of a well-funded company set to disrupt a multi-billion dollar market. You will have the autonomy to make a massive impact, the resources to execute your vision, and a significant stake in the company you help build.
What We Offer
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance
• Professional development opportunities and certification support
• Access to cutting-edge technology and cloud platforms
• Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
• Lumilens is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, identity, orientation, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Working Conditions
• This position is onsite
• May require quarterly off-site meetings or travel
• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary
• Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job
• May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours to accommodate business needs