Photonic Design and Layout Engineer

Overview

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology? Lightium, a leading-edge photonics startup, is looking for a skilled Photonic Design R&D Engineer to drive the development of new layout and design methodologies 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.

• Technical: GDS mask generation, floor-planning and block-level design of cutting-edge photonic components for internal and external stakeholders.
• Design:
  Translating block-level specifications into photonic designs together with our RF and optical simulation engineers.
• Simulation:
  Supporting Lightium’s simulation activities by contributing to optical and RF simulations using state-of-the-art simulation environments.
• PDK Development:
  Supporting Lightium’s PDK development by providing block-level functional models and statistical models involving fabrication and process tolerances.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with the R&D teams from design, processing, fabrication to optical testing and characterization, contributing to cross-functional projects to advance our PIC technologies.
• Documentation and Reporting:
  Maintain thorough documentation of design data and report findings, as well as implement work instructions and scripts for mask generation.
• Innovation:
  Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in photonics, incorporating new metrology techniques and technologies into our R&D efforts.

• Educational Background: A degree (MSc or PhD) in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Communications, Material Sciences or a related field.
• Field
  
  Experience:
  
  First work experience in photonic design at an industrial level. Prior experience with integrated photonics design, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP or related platforms is a plus.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong proficiency in GDS mask generation, optical simulations, RF/antenna simulations, design-rule-check (DRC), PDK development and improvement. Prior experience with optical proximity correction (OPC) is a plus.
• Organization & Documentation:
  Strong organizational skills to plan your work schedule between multiple projects, clean documentation of design data, following standard procedures, and use best practices to maintain confidence.
• Collaboration:
  
  Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Adaptability:
  The 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.

We offer a unique opportunity to work in a cutting-edge area of photonics with a collaborative and innovative environment. Competitive compensation and benefits, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP). Options for home office, generous vacation, pension support, and opportunities for professional development and continuing education. Join a young, motivated team and help shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative, results-driven environment.