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 lead the development of new processes and modules for our innovative thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of photonics solutions while collaborating with top academic institutions.
Position Summary
As a PIC Process R&D Engineer, your primary responsibility will be to develop and optimize new process modules to advance our TFLN-based PIC platforms. Your contributions will be crucial in driving innovation at the process level in our state-of-the-art cleanroom, transforming our cutting-edge photonic technologies from concept to reality.
Key Responsibilities
- Process Development: Design, develop, and implement innovative process modules for TFLN-based PICs in collaboration with state-of-the-art 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 advance our PIC technologies.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough documentation of process development and report findings. Implement process optimization methods such as Design of Experiment (DoE).
- Process Integration: Assist in integrating new processes into our production workflows, ensuring they meet the highest quality and reliability standards.
- Innovation: Stay updated on the latest advancements in photonics, incorporating new techniques and technologies into 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: At least 5 years of work experience in process design and cleanroom process development at an industrial level. Prior experience with integrated photonics, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP, or related photonics platforms.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in microfabrication techniques, such as e-beam lithography, UV/DUV stepper lithography, contact mask lithography, plasma etching, wet etching, and thin-film deposition methods. A strong background in metrology and thin-film characterization is a plus.
- Organization & Documentation: Strong organizational skills to plan work schedules across multiple facilities, record results and processes, follow facility guidelines, and maintain confidentiality.
- Collaboration: Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
- Adaptability: The capacity 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'd love to hear from you if you're passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and results-driven environment. Apply online using the form below. 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.