Senior Photonics Engineer

Rydberg Technologies is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Photonics Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of advanced lasers and photonic systems for next‑generation atomic quantum technologies. This hands‑on engineering role is ideal for a candidate passionate about photonics innovation and ready to work at the intersection of physics, optics, and system integration.

• Prototype Development:
  Lead the end‑to‑end design, simulation, and development of integrated photonic systems and laser subsystems, including wave guides, microrings, couplers, Sagnac mirrors, Bragg structures, and tapers.
• Simulation & Modeling:
  Perform device‑level and system‑level simulations using Lumerical MODE, FDTD, INTERCONNECT, HEAT/DEVICE, and GDSFactory. Conduct thermo‑optic and electro‑optic analysis and verification.
• Tapeout & Fabrication:
  Drive tapeout processes with commercial silicon photonics foundries. Manage GDSII layout preparation and validation using PDKs and oversee fabrication runs.
• System Integration:
  Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and thermal engineers to integrate photonic systems into complete atomic and quantum platforms. Ensure stable packaging, alignment, and optical performance.
• Characterization & Testing:
  Design and execute optical test procedures. Use MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, and other tools for real‑time data acquisition, analysis, and iterative design refinement.
• Research & Innovation:
  Monitor advances in PIC technologies, frequency stabilization, and heterogeneously integrated lasers. Drive internal innovation and contribute to strategic R&D planning.
• Documentation & Reporting:
  Produce clear and thorough documentation including design specs, simulation reports, testing results, and fabrication protocols.
• Mentorship & Leadership:
  Mentor junior engineers and support technicians. Contribute to team skill development and project execution best practices.

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Photonics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with narrow‑linewidth laser development and photonic system integration.
• Proficient in Ansys Lumerical, GDSFactory, MATLAB, Python, and Solid Works.
• Demonstrated experience with PIC design, layout, and foundry tapeouts (SiN, SOI, etc.).
• Expertise in laser stabilization, diode/fiber coupling, bonding/alignment, and integrated thermal‑mechanical design.
• Familiarity with PDK‑based workflows and semiconductor fabrication.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving skills.
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency may be required.

• Experience with ultra‑stable optical cavities, frequency combs, THz systems, or opto‑electronic packaging.
• Background in microfabrication, cleanroom processes, or MEMS.
• Experience with RF and electronic integration.
• Track record of publications, patents, or conference presentations in photonics or quantum engineering.
• Project management and leadership experience.

Rydberg Technologies Inc. is a pioneer in atomic quantum sensor technology, advancing novel systems for government, commercial, and scientific applications. We develop next‑generation Rydberg atom‑based sensors, quantum communications systems, and photonic subsystems that power the future of quantum technologies. We are a fast‑moving, innovation‑driven company that values initiative, precision, and scientific excellence. Join us in building photonic systems that redefine what’s possible.