Senior R&D Process Engineer - Photonics
Listed on 2026-06-03
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Engineering
Electronics Engineer, Research Scientist
Acceler8
Talent is proud to partner with a well-funded, photonics startup in the Santa Barbara area that is transforming next-generation optical microsystems aimed at disrupting traditional laser markets. Founded by established leaders in integrated photonics, it is an agile startup driving innovation at the cutting edge of optics. Leveraging heterogeneous photonics, its technology enables products with exceptional performance and significant advantages in cost, size, and functionality for applications in communications, sensing, and quantum technologies.
The team consists of top-tier engineers and scientists committed to delivering breakthrough capabilities and addressing real-world challenges.
They are looking for a Senior/Staff R&D Process Engineer with expertise in the hands-on fabrication (in cleanroom) of photonic and/or electronic integrated circuits and a proven ability to apply this knowledge in practice. In addition, they will understand how to develop, execute, and transfer R&D fabrication processes into production-scale modules. As a key team member, you will refine and deliver prototypes, lead technical efforts, collaborate with cross-functional teams and state-of-the-art foundries, and help shape the future of next-generation photonic technologies.
Does not support Visa sponsorship
What You’ll Do:- Develop, execute, and characterize fabrication processes for photonic integrated circuits at the wafer and die levels
- Work hands-on in the cleanroom across lithography, etch, deposition, bonding, and heterogeneous integration workflows
- Collaborate with design, test, and fabrication engineers to support commercial and R&D programs
- Interact with cleanroom staff, equipment vendors, and foundry partners to develop and optimize new processes
- Shape the company’s future by building fabrication capabilities, leading new technical initiatives, and supporting ongoing research
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in electrical engineering, materials science, physics, chemistry, or a related STEM field
- 3+ years of hands-on microfabrication experience with photonic, semiconductor, or MEMS devices
- Experience developing new fabrication processes and characterizing in-development devices
- Expertise with cleanroom fabrication tools including lithography, etching, deposition, bonding, and metrology
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate independently in a fast-paced R&D environment
Experience:
- Experience working in UCSB Nanofab facility
- Familiarity with integrated photonic devices and heterogeneous photonics platforms
- Experience with die-to-die, die-to-wafer, or wafer-to-wafer bonding
- Proficiency generating or editing GDS mask layouts
- Experience integrating new materials into photonic fabrication processes
- Background transferring R&D fabrication processes into commercial foundry or production environments
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