Senior Simulation Engineer (Optical & Photonics)

Senior Simulation Engineer -- Optical & Photonics Temecula, CA | Full-Time Summary The Senior Simulation Engineer -- Optical & Photonics is a highly technical engineering role responsible for the high-fidelity modeling, simulation, and virtual prototyping of advanced photonic integrated circuits (PICs). This individual will design and optimize high-performance III-V and Silicon Photonics devices, including lasers, modulators, photodetectors, and passive optical components. Working closely with device designers, fabrication teams, and an in-house foundry, this role serves as a critical bridge between theoretical modeling and physical device implementation. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in computational photonics, semiconductor physics, multi-physics simulation, and the development of photonic products from concept through manufacturing. Key Responsibilities Design, model, and simulate advanced III-V and Silicon Photonics devices and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) Develop high-fidelity models for active and passive components, including DFB/DBR lasers, SOAs, EAM/MZM modulators, UTC photodiodes, optical couplers, WDM devices, and 90-degree hybrids Lead multi-physics simulations combining optical, electrical, and thermal models, including analysis of self-heating and other device-performance effects Optimize RF performance for high-speed modulators and optical-electrical conversion efficiency Optimize epitaxy layers, quantum well designs, optical modes, and impedance matching across heterogeneous material interfaces Model and optimize III-V and Silicon heterogeneous integration for next-generation photonic devices Partner directly with internal fabrication and device-design teams to translate simulation results into actionable device layouts Support HPIC layouts, process design rules, DRC (Design Rule Check), and LVS (Layout Versus Schematic) activities to ensure tapeout accuracy Execute virtual Design of Experiments (DOE) to predict device performance, reliability, and manufacturing behavior Validate simulation results against internal laboratory characterization data and refine models and material parameters based on measured performance Develop automated simulation and data-analysis workflows using Python and/or MATLAB Analyze large technical datasets and use statistical methods to identify trends, optimize performance, and communicate results Troubleshoot discrepancies between simulated and measured device performance and recommend design or process improvements Present complex technical findings, design trade-offs, and recommendations to engineering teams, leadership, and customers Desired Skills Deep expertise in Silicon Photonics, III-V photonics, photonic integrated circuits, and semiconductor device modeling Expert-level proficiency with Ansys Lumerical , including FDTD, MODE, DEVICE, and INTERCONNECT Experience with photonics simulation platforms such as Synopsys RSoft/OptSim and Zemax/Speos Experience with RF and electromagnetic simulation tools such as Keysight ADS, Ansys HFSS, or CST Microwave Studio Advanced proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB for simulation automation, modeling, and large-scale data analysis Strong understanding of semiconductor physics, including bandgap engineering, carrier dynamics, recombination mechanisms, band structures, and quantum well design Experience modeling optical, electrical, thermal, and RF interactions in high-performance photonic devices Strong understanding of semiconductor fabrication and how epitaxy growth, etching profiles, and metallization affect optical and electrical device performance Familiarity with fiber coupling, optical packaging, and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) Experience with DRC, LVS, process design rules, and tapeout processes Experience using statistical analysis tools such as JMP or Minitab is preferred Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, particularly in identifying and resolving discrepancies between modeled and measured performance Excellent technical communication skills with the ability to explain complex engineering trade-offs to technical teams, leadership, and customers Proven ability to collaborate across device design, fabrication, characterization, and manufacturing teams Education & Experience Minimum Education: M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline with an emphasis on computational photonics 10+ years of industrial experience in photonics simulation and design Extensive hands-on experience with III-V and Silicon Photonics device modeling Proven track record of bringing photonic or semiconductor products from concept and simulation through fabrication and manufacturing Significant experience with active and passive photonic device simulation, multi-physics modeling, and model validation Experience working directly with semiconductor fabrication or an in-house foundry environment strongly preferred Demonstrated experience translating simulation results into manufacturable device designs Work Environment & Travel Full-time position in a temperature-controlled office and laboratory environment Re- Expected travel is less than 25% Position is based at a facility operating under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Applicants must qualify as a "U.S. person" under ITAR , which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents (Green Card holders), political asylees, and refugees Compensation & Benefits Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications Comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, dental, and vision coverage 401(k) Company-paid life insurance Company-paid disability coverage Paid holidays and vacation Birthday leave Gym membership discounts #J-18808-Ljbffr Ignite Human Capital