Join Our Team as a PIC Process R&D Engineer
Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology? Lightium, a cutting-edge photonics startup, is seeking a skilled PIC Process R&D Engineer to drive the development of innovative processes and modules for our thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. This role presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of photonic solutions while collaborating with leading academic institutions.
Position Summary
As a PIC Process R&D Engineer, you will be instrumental in developing and optimizing new process modules to advance our TFLN-based PIC platforms. Your efforts will be crucial in fostering innovation at the process level within our state-of-the-art cleanroom, transforming our advanced photonic technologies from concept to reality.
Key Responsibilities
- Process Development: Design, develop, and implement innovative process modules for TFLN-based PICs in collaboration with top-tier R&D and production cleanrooms.
- Experimental Work: Conduct experiments and process trials in cleanroom environments, analyzing data to optimize and validate new processes.
- Collaboration: Work closely with R&D teams from design to optical testing and characterization, contributing to cross-functional projects that enhance our PIC technologies.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain comprehensive documentation of process development and report findings, while implementing process optimization methods such as Design of Experiment (DoE).
- Process Integration: Assist in integrating new processes into our production workflows, ensuring adherence to the highest quality and reliability standards.
- Innovation: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in photonics, integrating new techniques and technologies into our process development.
What Our Ideal Candidate Brings
- Educational Background: An advanced degree (PhD or Postdoc) in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in process design and cleanroom process development at an industrial level. Previous experience with integrated photonics platforms such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP, or related fields is preferred.
- Technical Skills: Proficient in microfabrication techniques including e-beam lithography, UV/DUV stepper lithography, contact mask lithography, plasma etching (ICP, RIE, IBE, etc.), wet etching, and thin-film deposition (CVD, LPCVD, PECVD, ALD, sputtering, etc.). A strong background in metrology and thin-film characterization is a plus.
- Organization & Documentation: Exceptional organizational skills to manage work schedules across multiple facilities, record results and processes, adhere to facility guidelines, and follow best practices to maintain confidentiality.
- Collaboration: Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Adaptability: 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.
- 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 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.
We invite you to 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.