Lead Optics Test Engineer (ODVT)

Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges.

At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We  believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.

What You’ll Do

Arista Networks is seeking an Optics Engineer to join the Optics/Hardware group. The Arista Optics team manages copper and optical interconnection products across all Arista platforms, covering everything from 10G to 1.6T client optics and long-haul coherent optical solutions. The candidate will be actively involved in ODVT testing of optical transceivers within platform environments to ensure system interoperability. This role positions the individual as a subject matter expert, with responsibilities including optics specification development, testing, and analysis.

This is an exciting opportunity for a professional with industry and technical expertise in optics to contribute and lead in the upcoming transition to 1.6T full retimed, LRO, and LPO—the next generation of AI data center networking solutions.

• Lead Optical Design Verification Testing (ODVT) for PAM4-based 50G, 100G, 200G, 400G, 800G, and 1.6T optical transceivers.
• Perform ODVT measurements and characterization of 800G LPO, and 800G/1.6T optical transceivers.
• Write and maintain Python-based code to automate test flows, control lab instruments and log test results at scale.
• Set up and run optical/electrical tests using tools like BERTs, power meters, spectrum analyzers and oscilloscopes.
• Conduct benchmarking of emerging optical technologies to assess performance and compatibility.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing test infrastructure for optical transceiver products.
• Serve as the optics subject matter expert, providing support to internal teams and external customers.
• Create comprehensive test reports, documenting test procedures, equipment used, and results obtained.

• MS degree in Optical or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 10 years of experience in the networking industry.
• Hands-on experience with ODVT testing of optical transceivers.
• Strong knowledge of coherent optical systems.
• Familiarity with optical technologies, optical form factors, relevant industry standards, and higher order modulations.
• Ability to participate in person at the ODVT hardware laboratory as required.

Compensation Information:

The new hire base pay for this role has a salary range of $140,000 to $198,000. Arista offers different pay ranges based on work location, so that we can offer consistent and competitive pay appropriate to the market. The actual base pay offered will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, relevant experience, and work location. The pay range provided reflects base pay only and in addition certain roles may also be eligible for discretionary Arista bonuses and equity. Employees in Sales roles are eligible to participate in Arista’s Sales Incentive Plan, which pays commissions calculated as a percentage of eligible sales. US-based employees are also entitled to benefits including medical, dental, vision, wellbeing, tax savings and income protection. The recruiting team can share more details during the hiring process specific to the role and location.

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Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer.  Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law.  All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.