Khalil Kechaou

• Team Leadership: Supervised the Test and Logistics team, including managing a Test Technician, who was responsible for logistics and operational tasks. I mentored and guided a team member to enhance performance.
• Characterization and Testing: Defined and improved optical and electro-optical test setups for PIC characterization. Conducted wafer-level testing to enhance measurement precision.
• Process Automation: Automated test report generation and quality control processes using Python. Designed automated scheduling systems to prioritize testing tasks efficiently.
• Operational Tools Development: Oversaw the development of a web application with dashboards for automating logistical tasks, including label generation with QR codes, and automatic email notifications.
• Lab and Equipment Management: Maintained cleanroom and test equipment, ensuring optimal operation and safety standards. Introduced a second wafer-level tester to enhance throughput.
• Quality and Problem-Solving: Managed issues related to test and logistics quality using the 8D methodology. Collaborated with the quality team to organize the Test and Logistics division, achieving ISO 9001 certification in 2024.
• Reporting: Generated weekly and monthly operational reports for executive management.

• Software Development: Designed and developed a full-stack Python application to monitor and manage manufacturing processes for free-space photonic systems.
• Automation and Characterization: Designed and automated advanced test benches for optical components using Python and LabVIEW. Implemented automated characterization tests (e.g., insertion loss, return loss, polarization extinction ratio [PER], free spectral range [FSR]) by integrating and controlling test equipment, significantly reducing production time.
• Research and Equipment Acquisition: Spearheaded the identification, acquisition, and integration of cutting-edge measurement tools and fabrication equipment to enhance testing and production capabilities.
• Project Leadership: Led cross-functional teams to develop innovative products, overseeing projects from initial concept through to final production.
• Manufacturing Process Optimization: Established and streamlined manufacturing workflows to enhance operational efficiency, and ensure consistent quality standards.
• Technical Support: Provided hands-on technical expertise and support to the fabrication site manager, managing a team of approximately 10 people. Designed and implemented production tools using SolidWorks to improve operational effectiveness.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Conducted in-depth statistical analysis and generated reports to guide continuous process improvement, and ensure data-driven decision-making.

• Production Oversight: Directed a team of six technicians in the production of optical spectrum analyzers (OSA).
• Automation & Tools: Developed Python-based task management and stock control systems. Automated calibration benches to improve accuracy and reduce cycle times.
• Collaboration: Partnered with R&D to integrate optics and mechanics for new products.
• Customer Support: Managed after-sales services, including equipment repair and technical presentations at international trade shows.

• Dissertation: Modeling and Characterization of Optical Sources for Access and Metropolitan Networks.
• Key Contributions:
• Developed a nonlinear MATLAB model of a Dual Electroabsorption Modulated Laser (D-EML) in collaboration with III-V Lab (Nokia).
• Designed a high-speed test bench for D-EML characterization in collaboration with the C2N lab.
• Conducted transmission tests at 20, 25, and 40 Gbit/s.
• Authored and co-authored 16 scientific publications.

Modeling of a Semiconductor Optical Amplifier (SOA)

• Developed a basic simulation model of an SOA in MATLAB.