Director, NPI Operations
Lightmatter is at the forefront of revolutionizing AI data center infrastructure with its innovative 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™, designed to connect processors at the speed of light for advanced AI and HPC workloads. The company has secured $400 million in Series D funding, achieving a valuation of $4.4 billion. As part of its growth, Lightmatter is seeking a strategic and hands-on Director of New Product Introduction (NPI) Operations to lead the transition of next-generation hardware products from design completion through mass production.
In this role, the Director will lead the cross-functional NPI Core Team to integrate Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) requirements early in the product design phase, focusing on optical assembly and hybrid integration. The position involves driving the Stage-Gate process from prototype to production validation, managing supplier readiness by partnering with strategic sourcing to identify and qualify specialized OSAT partners, and overseeing yield and ramp management strategies to ensure a smooth transition to high-volume manufacturing.
The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, with over 10 years of experience in hardware operations or NPI within the semiconductor, networking, or high-performance computing industries. A deep understanding of semiconductor fabrication, advanced packaging, or optical assembly is essential, along with a proven track record of managing cross-functional teams and external manufacturing partners in a high-growth, fast-paced environment.
Lightmatter offers a competitive compensation package, with a base salary range of $248,000 to $277,000, determined based on location, experience, educational background, and market data. The total compensation includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards recognizing individual impact and contribution.
Joining Lightmatter means becoming part of a team of brilliant scientists, engineers, and industry leaders dedicated to reinventing the future of computing with light. The company fosters a collaborative and innovative culture, providing opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work on groundbreaking technology that is shaping the future of AI and data center infrastructure.