Join Our Team at Lightium
Do you dream of designing the photonic engines at the heart of tomorrow’s communication and quantum systems? At Lightium, we are developing cutting-edge photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) and expanding our platform with integrated III-V active devices. We are currently seeking a PIC Design Engineer with deep expertise in modeling and designing active photonic components to help us reach this next milestone.
Position Summary
We are looking for a PIC Designer with a strong focus on III-V-based active components, including lasers, semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), and photodetectors. In this role, you will lead the simulation, design, and optimization of these devices, develop compact models for our process design kit (PDK), and support the integration of these components into complete photonic circuits. Your contributions will directly shape the active device layer of our hybrid TFLN platform.
Key Responsibilities
- Active Device Design: Design and optimize III-V-based layer stacks for lasers, SOAs, and photodetectors using FEM, FDTD, and semiconductor modeling tools. Simulate optical, electrical, and thermal performance to guide layer stack design, device layout, and fabrication.
- Hybrid Integration: Collaborate on co-design between TFLN passive circuits and III-V active regions, ensuring alignment between optical mode matching, coupling strategies, and process constraints.
- PDK Modeling: Develop compact physical and behavioral models of active devices for system-level simulations and integrate them into our PDK using tools such as GDS Factory, Luceda Photonics -IPKISS, Nazca, or Synopsys.
- Circuit Integration: Support circuit-level layout and simulation of PICs, incorporating both passive and active components, and contribute to the co-simulation of optical and RF behavior at the circuit level.
- Collaboration: Work closely with fabrication, characterization, and packaging teams to validate designs, support test plans, and iterate on performance improvements.
- Technical Expertise: Stay updated on advances in III-V integration, hybrid bonding, and active PIC packaging, applying these learnings to enhance Lightium’s platform continuously.
- Documentation: Maintain clear records of device designs, simulation parameters, and integration strategies.
- Customer & Project Support: Occasionally support customer designs or public-funded R&D projects by contributing technical expertise and simulation input.
What Our Ideal Candidate Brings
- Education & Experience: A PhD in III-V design or 3+ years of III-V work experience, including proficiency in photonics simulation software (e.g., COMSOL or Lumerical) and band gap simulation tools (e.g., Silvaco, Photon Design, Ansys Semiconductor). Experience in the PIC industry is highly desirable.
- Additional Knowledge: Advanced experience with RF high-speed (UTC detectors) and RF simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, CST). Familiarity with micro-transfer printing, coupon or tether design, photonic characterization, and microfabrication is a plus.
- Problem Solving & Proactiveness: Deep analytical skills with the capability to model and improve complex multi-physics systems and the autonomy to identify and resolve challenges.
- Adaptability: Thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience amid change.
- Communication Skills: A collaborative mindset with the ability to clearly present technical work to diverse teams. Fluency in English is required.
What We Offer
- A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond.
- A competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP) that reflects your experience and expertise.
- The chance to be a key player in an early-phase startup and join a motivated, energetic team, with opportunities for professional growth at a fast pace.
If you're passionate about building new technology from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative, results-driven environment, we would love to hear from you.
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.