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 lead 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 be pivotal in fostering innovation at the process level in our state-of-the-art cleanroom, bringing 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 advanced R&D and production cleanrooms.
- Experimental Work: Conduct experiments and process trials in cleanroom environments, analyzing data to optimize and validate new processes.
- Collaboration: Engage 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, implementing process optimization methods such as Design of Experiments (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, 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: A minimum of 5 years of work experience in process design and cleanroom process development at the industrial level. Prior experience with integrated photonics, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP, or related photonics platforms is highly desirable.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in microfabrication techniques such as 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 effectively plan work schedules across multiple facilities, document results, adhere to facility guidelines, and implement best practices to maintain confidentiality.
- Collaboration: Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup culture, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in the face of change.
- Language Skills: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in German or French is a plus.
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), reflecting your experience and expertise.
- The chance to become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. This role offers a unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.
We would love to hear from you if you're passionate about building new technology from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative, results-driven environment. 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.