Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing: Leading Optical Engineering at MaxLinear in San Jose

Discover the high-impact role of Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing at MaxLinear, a leader in connectivity semiconductors. This San Jose position offers a competitive salary of $159,200 to $247,135 annually and focuses on advancing optical module standards compliance with IEEE, OIF, and MSA methodologies.

Introduction

The Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing position at MaxLinear represents a pinnacle opportunity in optical engineering and telecommunications. Based in San Jose, California, this leadership role drives the development and execution of interoperability testing strategies for optical modules. With a salary range of $159,200 to $247,135 per year, it attracts seasoned professionals in photonics and high-speed networking. This job emphasizes adapting MaxLinear’s IoP (Interoperability Profile) test suites to the latest IEEE, Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF), and Multi-Source Agreement (MSA) testing methodologies. Ideal for experts in optical transceivers, it ensures seamless integration across multi-vendor environments, crucial for data center and telecom infrastructure.

Analysis

This role demands deep expertise in optical module interoperability testing, a critical process verifying that components like SFP, QSFP, and OSFP transceivers function reliably across different manufacturers’ systems. MaxLinear, known for its analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, relies on such testing to maintain product leadership in 400G/800G Ethernet and coherent optics.

Core Responsibilities

Key duties include developing interoperability testing strategies, adapting MaxLinear’s IoP test features to emerging IEEE 802.3 standards, OIF-CEI electrical interfaces, and MSA specifications for pluggable optics. Leaders in this position mentor testing teams, oversee lab operations, and collaborate with R&D to resolve compliance issues. This ensures optical modules meet plug-and-play interoperability, reducing deployment risks in hyperscale networks.

Required Qualifications

Candidates typically hold a bachelor’s or master’s in electrical engineering, optics, or photonics, with 10+ years in optical module testing. Proficiency in BERT (Bit Error Rate Testing), signal integrity analysis, and automation tools like Python for test scripting is essential. Familiarity with IEEE P802.3ck (800G), OIF 800ZR, and QSFP-DD/OSFP MSAs positions applicants strongly.

Industry Context

Optical module interoperability testing addresses the growing demand for 100G+ speeds in AI-driven data centers. Standards bodies like IEEE and OIF evolve rapidly; for instance, IEEE 802.3df targets 1.6T Ethernet, making this director’s role pivotal for MaxLinear’s roadmap.

Summary

In summary, the Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing at MaxLinear in San Jose, CA, is a senior leadership position paying $159,200-$247,135 annually. It focuses on strategizing tests aligned with IEEE, OIF, and MSA standards, mentoring teams, and ensuring optical module compatibility. Posted on October 5, 2025, this role suits optical engineering veterans ready to shape next-gen networking tech.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Aspiring candidates for Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing roles should prepare strategically to stand out in competitive optical engineering job markets.

How to Apply

Visit MaxLinear’s careers page or the original job board source to submit your application. Tailor your resume to highlight IEEE/OIF/MSA project leadership, quantifying impacts like “Led 400G interoperability tests achieving 99.99% compliance across 20 vendors.” Include a cover letter emphasizing your vision for optical module standardization.

Skill-Building Tips

Enhance your profile by earning certifications in optical testing (e.g., from EXFO or Keysight training) and contributing to OIF/MSA working groups. Master tools like oscilloscopes for eye diagram analysis and automation frameworks for scalable IoP testing. Network at events like OFC (Optical Fiber Communication Conference) or ECOC to connect with MaxLinear recruiters.

Interview Preparation

Expect technical deep dives on interoperability challenges, such as crosstalk in 800G modules or forward error correction (FEC) margins per IEEE 802.3ck. Prepare behavioral examples of mentoring test engineers and resolving multi-vendor issues.

Points of Caution

While lucrative, this role involves high-stakes responsibilities. Beware of rapid standards evolution; outdated knowledge of IEEE drafts or OIF implementations can hinder success. San Jose’s high cost of living (median home ~$1.4M) offsets the salary, so budget accordingly. Ensure your experience aligns precisely—mid-level engineers may need 5-7 years more tenure. Verify job details directly with MaxLinear, as postings can update.

Comparison

Compared to similar roles, MaxLinear’s Director position outpaces averages. For instance:

MaxLinear’s offering excels in targeted IEEE/OIF/MSA focus, ideal for standards specialists. Salaries reflect Glassdoor/Levels.fyi data for 2024-2025 Bay Area optics roles.

Legal Implications

This U.S.-based role falls under California employment laws, including mandatory salary transparency per SB 1162 (2022), which requires pay range disclosure—evident in this $159,200-$247,135 listing. MaxLinear adheres to EEOC equal opportunity guidelines, prohibiting discrimination based on race, gender, or age. Applicants benefit from at-will employment protections and potential equity grants under SEC regulations. Non-compete clauses are limited in CA (Business & Professions Code §16600), aiding mobility in optical engineering. Verify visa eligibility; H-1B sponsorship may apply for qualified international talent.

Conclusion

The Director of Optical Module Interoperability Testing at MaxLinear offers a rare blend of leadership, innovation, and compensation in San Jose’s thriving optics sector. By spearheading IEEE/OIF/MSA-compliant strategies, you’ll drive the future of high-speed optical modules essential for 5G, AI, and cloud computing. With a salary up to $247,135, it’s a career-defining move for optical engineering leaders. Apply now to contribute to MaxLinear’s mission in connectivity semiconductors.

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