Photonic Design and Layout Engineer / Photonic Design and Layout Engineeress

Lightium AG - February 19, 2026

Join Our Team at Lightium

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology? Lightium, a leading-edge photonics startup, is seeking a skilled Photonics Design R&D Engineer to drive the development of new layout and design methodologies for our innovative thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of photonics solutions while collaborating with top academic institutions.

Position Summary

As a Photonic Design and Layout Engineer, you will define, implement, and execute the wafer-level and block-level designs and floor-planning of our internal and customer designs in our TFLN-based PIC platform. Your contributions will be pivotal in continuing the innovation at the design level using state-of-the-art software packages, bringing our cutting-edge photonic technologies from concept to mass production.

Responsibilities

  • Technical: GDS mask generation, floor-planning, and block-level design of cutting-edge photonic components for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Design: Translating block-level specifications into photonic designs together with our RF and optical simulation engineers.
  • Simulation: Supporting Lightium’s simulation activities by contributing to optical and RF simulations using state-of-the-art simulation environments.
  • PDK Development: Supporting Lightium’s PDK development by providing block-level functional models and statistical models involving fabrication and process tolerances.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the R&D teams from design, processing, fabrication to optical testing and characterization, contributing to cross-functional projects to advance our PIC technologies.
  • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough documentation of design data and report findings, as well as implement work instructions and scripts for mask generation.
  • Innovation: Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in photonics, incorporating new metrology techniques and technologies into our R&D landscape.

What Our Ideal Candidate Brings

  • Educational Background: A degree (MSc or PhD) in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Communications, Material Sciences, or a related field.
  • Experience: First work experience in photonic design at an industrial level. Prior experience with integrated photonics design, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP, or related photonics platforms is a plus.
  • Technical Skills: Strong proficiency in GDS mask generation, optical simulations, RF / antenna simulations, design-rule-check (DRC), PDK development, and improvement. Experience with optical proximity correction (OPC) is a plus.
  • Organization & Documentation: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, maintain clean documentation of design data, follow standard operating procedures, and use best practices to ensure confidentiality.
  • Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
  • Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in the face of change.
  • Language Skills: Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of German or French is an advantage.

What We Offer

A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics. Enjoy a collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond. We provide a competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP) that reflects your experience and expertise. Additional perks include:

  • Home office possibilities
  • Generous vacation
  • Full salary insurance under the Pillar 2 pension
  • Support for conference attendance and continuing education

Become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Lightium is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

Location : Schlieren
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

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