Senior Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Design Engineer

Job Title: Senior Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Design EngineerLocation: REMOTE - Our HQ is in Sunnyvale, CACompensation: $175K - $225K base + 15%-20% bonus + equity Requirement: Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Design, Optical Phased Arrays (OPA), Photonic Spectral Filter Design, Free-Space Optical Communication (FSOC), Silicon Photonics, Photonic Switch DesignOur company is on a mission to connect billions of people who lack abundant and affordable internet by pioneering high-throughput, long-range free-space optical communication (FSOC) technologies. Our links use eye-safe lasers propagating between two terminals to transmit high-speed data wirelessly. Lead the charge in bringing our groundbreaking wireless optical communication to the world. Join us to light the way toward bridging the digital divide and illuminating the future.Position OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Photonic Circuits Design Engineer to work on next-generation photonic and electronic integrated modules as part of the R&D team developing cutting-edge wireless optical communication systems based on integrated optical phased arrays.The successful candidate will own photonic circuit architecture, photonic spectral filter design, and photonic switch design within the very-large-scale photonic integrated circuits (PICs) designed at our company. This includes contributing to photonic layout and to system considerations such as optical link modeling. The role requires extensive experience in photonic design and layout-including chip-level ownership of photonic circuit design for commercial foundry tapeouts-and deep expertise in spectral filter design and communication link budgets.We are looking for a highly motivated individual who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys working in a small, dynamic team environment, and has a passion for solving challenging problems that lead to high-impact technological advances.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn and deliver record-breaking photonic integrated circuit designs. Contribute to photonic layout, system-level optimization, and product strategy. Lead end-to-end PIC design projects from architecture and component specification through simulation, layout, DRC/LVS checks, and foundry tape-out coordination.Develop and validate photonic building blocks (OPA elements, switches, spectral filters, modulators, detectors) using FDTD, eigenmode, and circuit-level tools (Lumerical, VPIphotonics, or equivalent).Perform optical link budget modeling and system-level analysis to ensure target performance for free-space optical communication (FSOC) and fiber-coupled systems.Create and optimize photonic layouts adhering to commercial foundry PDKs, design rules, and photonic design kits; prepare and review GDSII/OASIS files for tape-out.Collaborate cross-functionally with system architects, electronics engineers, test engineers, and package/fab partners to align photonic, electronic, and mechanical interfaces.Drive design-for-manufacturability and yield improvement initiatives through simulation, tolerance analysis, and prototype characterization feedback.Develop test plans and support wafer- and packaged-device characterization; analyze measurement data and iterate designs to meet specifications.Mentor junior engineers, lead design reviews, and document best practices, design guidelines, and verification checklists.Automate design flows and analysis using scripting (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to accelerate simulations, post-processing, and yield/tolerance studies.Engage with foundry partners and manage tape-out schedules, PDK updates, and DRC/LVS sign-off processes.QualificationsMS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics, or related field; PhD preferred or comparable industry experience.5+ years of experience with demonstrated achievements in photonic circuit (PIC) design.Extensive expertise in photonic spectral filter design and photonic link modeling. Expertise in photonic switch design, antenna theory, and photonic layout. Experience with photonic device simulation software (Lumerical or equivalent). Experience with optical link simulation software (VPIphotonics, Lumerical Interconnect, or equivalent).Hands-on experience with multiple tapeouts at commercial foundries. Preferred:Experience with Python, Git, and gdsfactory. Experience with Design Rule Checks (DRC) and Layout Versus Schematic (LVS). Experience with commercial layout verification software (Calibre or equivalent). Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to work effectively with senior external partners. Hands-on experience in advancing a product from the prototype phase to the final production stage. BenefitsMedical, dental, and visionBonusEmployee Stock OptionsPTO/Vacation401K