Job Details

Base pay range

$145,000.00/yr - $215,000.00/yr

About the Company

We're working with a stealth-mode hardware startup that's changing how the world's biggest AI data centers are built. They've invented a radically different kind of optical switch that connects thousands of GPUs and memory units directly with light - no traditional wires, no bottlenecks. The result? Faster, more energy-efficient infrastructure that scales effortlessly for next-gen AI workloads.

Backed by top-tier investors and led by engineers with deep roots in silicon photonics and high-performance systems, this team is on a mission to make optical switching the standard for hyperscale computing.

About the Role

We're looking for a hands-on Product Validation Engineering Manager to build and lead the function that makes sure the product performs exactly the way it was designed. This is not traditional QA. Instead, you'll be the technical expert and data-driven detective that verifies every aspect of the product from mechanical dimensions to embedded firmware is working as intended.

You'll work across engineering functions, run rigorous validation efforts, and use real-world test data to drive technical excellence and continuous improvement. If you're passionate about building structured, efficient, high-quality validation processes and you love working with brilliant hardware and embedded teams—this is a chance to do career-defining work.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and manage the engineering verification and validation strategy.
• Approve firmware releases after confirming they meet functional and system requirements.
• Ensure mechanical, electrical, and software systems conform to specifications across multiple test cycles.

Data-Driven Feedback Loops

• Implement Statistical Process Control (SPC) and other analytics to translate manufacturing and test data into engineering insights.
• Identify weak points or variances in product behavior and communicate findings clearly to cross-functional teams.

Team Building & Execution

• Lead and grow a small, focused team of verification engineers.
• Collaborate closely with hardware, firmware, and mechanical teams to ensure validation is integrated into the design cycle—not an afterthought.

Reporting & External Engagement

• Produce detailed test reports and performance summaries.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for customers regarding validation protocols and results.

What You'll Bring Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years in engineering validation, with at least 3 years managing teams.
• Strong foundation in embedded software testing and system-level verification.
• Proficiency with SPC and other tools to translate data into insights.
• Clear communicator with the ability to convey technical findings to internal teams and customers.

Bonus Points

• Familiarity with validating mechanical, optical, and hardware systems.
• Experience using scripting languages (Python, LabVIEW) for test automation.
• Background in telecom, datacenter, or optical systems.
• Salary range: $145,000 – $215,000/year, depending on experience and role fit.
• Equity: Competitive early-stage equity available.
• Benefits: Full suite including health, vision, dental, and PTO.
• Flexible hybrid work setup (Bay Area preferred for lab access).

Interested in joining a team pushing the boundaries of what's possible in AI infrastructure? Apply now or reach out to the Thrively team directly to learn more.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Industries

• Semiconductor Manufacturing

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