Join Our Team as a PIC Design Engineer
Do you aspire to design the photonic engines that will power tomorrow’s communication and quantum systems? At Lightium, we are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) while expanding our platform with integrated III-V active devices. We invite you to apply online using the form below if you have the expertise we are looking for.
Position Summary
We are searching for a PIC Design Engineer with robust experience in III-V-based active components, including lasers, semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), and photodetectors. In this role, you will take the lead in the simulation, design, and optimization of these devices, develop compact models for our process design kit (PDK), and support the integration of these elements into comprehensive photonic circuits. Your contributions will play a crucial role in shaping 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 utilizing FEM, FDTD, and other semiconductor modeling tools. Simulate optical, electrical, and thermal performance to guide layer stack design, device layout, and fabrication.
- Hybrid Integration: Work collaboratively on the co-design between TFLN passive circuits and III-V active regions, ensuring alignment in optical mode matching, coupling strategies, and process constraints.
- PDK Modeling: Develop compact physical and behavioral models of active devices for application in system-level simulations. Integrate these models into our PDK using tools such as GDS Factory, Luceda Photonics -IPKISS, Nazca, or Synopsys.
- Circuit Integration: Assist in circuit-level layout and simulation of PICs, encompassing both passive and active components. Contribute to the co-simulation of optical and RF behavior at the circuit level.
- Collaboration: Collaborate 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 new insights to continuously enhance Lightium’s platform.
- Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of device designs, simulation parameters, and integration strategies.
- Customer & Project Support: Occasionally provide support for customer designs or public-funded R&D projects, offering technical expertise and simulation input.
What Our Ideal Candidate Brings
- Education & Experience: A PhD in III-V design or a minimum of 3 years of experience in III-V work, including proficiency in photonics simulation software (COMSOL or Lumerical) and band gap simulation tools (Silvaco, Photon Design, Ansys Semiconductor, etc.). Experience in the PIC industry is a plus.
- Additional Knowledge: Advanced expertise in RF high speed (UTC detectors) and RF simulation tools (HFSS, CST, etc.). Familiarity with micro-transfer printing, coupon or tether design, photonic characterization, and microfabrication is beneficial.
- Problem Solving & Proactiveness: Strong analytical skills with the ability to model and improve complex multi-physics systems. A proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges independently.
- Adaptability: Thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in the face of change.
- Communication Skills: A collaborative mindset with the ability to present technical work clearly to diverse teams. Fluency in English is required.
What We Offer
- A unique opportunity to lead a pioneering manufacturing initiative in the rapidly expanding field of photonics.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will significantly impact the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond.
- A competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP) to reflect your experience and expertise.
- The chance to become a key player in an early-phase startup, joining a motivated and dynamic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills rapidly.
Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.