Senior PIC Process R&D Engineer / Senior PIC Process R&D Engineeress

Lightium AG - January 25, 2026

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 leading-edge photonics startup, is seeking a skilled PIC Process R&D Engineer to spearhead the development of new processes and modules 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 PIC Process R&D Engineer, you will develop and optimize new process modules to advance our TFLN-based PIC platforms. Your contributions will play a crucial role in driving innovation at the process level within a state-of-the-art cleanroom, bringing 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 our 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 through to optical testing and characterization, contributing to cross-functional projects to advance our PIC technologies.
  • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough documentation of process development, reporting findings and employing 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 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: At least 5 years of 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 platforms is preferred.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in microfabrication techniques including e-beam lithography, UV/DUV stepper lithography, contact mask lithography, plasma etching (ICP, RIE, IBE, etc.), wet etching, thin-film deposition (CVD, LPCVD, PECVD, ALD, sputtering, etc.), and metallization. A strong background in metrology and thin-film characterization is a plus.
  • Organization & Documentation: Strong organizational skills to manage work across multiple facilities, meticulously record results and processes, adhere to facility guidelines, and maintain confidentiality.
  • Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
  • Adaptability: Thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience amidst 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 motivated, energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.

If you're passionate about building new technology from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative, result-driven environment, 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.

Location : Schlieren
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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

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