R&D Process Engineer

Position: R&D Process Engineer

Location: Santa Barbara, CA (On-Site)

Beacon Photonics is creating revolutionary optical microsystems to disrupt traditional laser markets. Founded by pioneers in the field of integrated photonics, we are a dynamic tech startup at the forefront of optical innovation. Our heterogeneous photonics technology enables high-performance products that provide unparalleled advantages in cost, size, and functionality for communications, sensing, and quantum systems. We are a dedicated group of world-class engineers and scientists devoted to realizing transformative capabilities and solving real-world problems.

We are seeking an exceptional R&D Process Engineer to join our rapidly growing team. The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in the hands-on fabrication of photonic and/or electronic integrated circuits and have a proven ability to apply this knowledge in practice. In addition, they will understand how to develop, execute, and transfer fabrication processes into production-scale modules. As a key team member, you will refine and deliver prototypes, lead technical efforts, and collaborate with cross-functional teams and state-of-the-art foundries. To apply, please send your resume to with the position in the subject line.

Responsibilities :

• Develop, carry out, and characterize fabrication processes at the UCSB Nanofabrication Facility on photonic integrated circuits at the wafer and die levels
• Work with a team of design, test, and fabrication engineers to support a variety of commercial and R&D programs
• Interact with cleanroom staff and equipment vendors to develop new processes
• Shape the company’s future by building capabilities, leading new activities, and supporting ongoing research
• Collaborate with a team of integrated photonics designers and foundry partners

Requirements :

• Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, materials science, or similar field, or M.S. with 3+ years of professional experience with microfabrication, or B.S with 6+ years.
• Experience in developing new fabrication processes and characterizing in-development devices
• Expertise with cleanroom tools used for lithography, etching, deposition, metrology, and others
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong work ethic, and attention to detail

Desirable Skills and Experience :

• Experience working in the UCSB Nanofab facility
• Familiarity with integrated photonic devices
• Experience with die-to-die, die-to-wafer, or wafer-wafer bonding
• Proficiency generating and editing GDS mask files
• Experience developing processes for the integration of new materials with photonic circuits
• Experience with the transfer of R&D processes to commercial foundry settings

Beacon Photonics has offices in Arlington, VA and Santa Barbara, CA. We value innovation, collaboration, open and honest communication, and a passion for technology. Come build your future with us! Our benefits include competitive compensation and employee stock ownership. We provide generous family medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, holidays, parental leave, and paid time off. Beacon is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to sustaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

Estimated Salary Range: $130K – $210K

Actual compensation for the role will be commensurate with the candidate’s education, work experience, skills, incoming position, and responsibilities.

This position involves access to technology that may be subject to U.S. export controls. Such access is granted to U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful permanent residents, certain categories of refugees and asylees, and those who can obtain appropriate export control licenses from the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce.