Principal Photonic Integrated Circuit Design Engineer

Location

Location: 7100 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, MD, Ste 160

Position: Principal Photonic Integrated Circuit Design Engineer

• Contribute to design, simulation and layout of PICs in support of internal and external R&D contracts.
• Perform hands‑on testing and troubleshooting of PIC chips and components.
• Collaborate in a multi‑discipline team setting to solve complex engineering problems.
• Perform and participate in internal and external technical reviews.
• Independently drive projects and execute to program schedules and budgets.
• Travel up to 10%, with some overnight travel.

• Degree in STEM and minimum 8 years of relevant experience.
• Experience designing integrated photonic circuits.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. government‑issued security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

• Master of Science or Ph.D. in Physics, Optics, Photonics or related field.
• Experience with Silicon Nitride platform.
• Experience with III/V semiconductors or Thin Film Lithium Niobate.
• Proficiency in PIC design and simulation software (Lumerical, Optocompiler, COMSOL, KLayout, or similar).
• Proficiency in RF design software (HFSS or similar).
• Experience fabricating PIC devices in a cleanroom environment.
• Understanding of PIC fabrication at commercial foundries.
• Experience developing and executing testing plans.
• Self‑motivated problem solver with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Self‑directed, able to complete tasks with minimal oversight.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

• Leadership values of Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.
• Relocation support based on candidate eligibility.
• Salary range: 118,300 USD – 224,900 USD.
• Benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays.
• Potential eligibility for annual incentive compensation programs.

• Active Top Secret clearance required; must obtain and maintain clearance after day 1.
• U.S. citizenship required.

• Position type:
  Onsite.
• Travel requirement:
  Up to 10%.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

To apply, submit your application through the RTX careers portal. The application window is approximately 40 days from the posted date. Applicants may be required to attend select interview steps in person at our office locations.