Photonic Design and Layout Engineer

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology? Lightium, a leading-edge photonics startup, is looking for a skilled Photonics Design R&D Engineer to drive the development of new layout and design methodologies for our innovative thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of photonics solutions while collaborating with top academic institutions.

As a Photonic Design and Layout Engineer, you will define, implement and execute the wafer-level and block-level designs and floor-planning of our internal and customer designs in our TFLN-based PIC platform. Your contributions will be pivotal in continuing the innovation at the design level using state-of-the-art software packages, bringing our cutting‑edge photonic technologies from concept to mass production.

Technical: GDS mask generation, floor‑planning and block‑level design of cutting‑edge photonic components for internal and external stakeholders.

Design: Translating block‑level specifications into photonic designs together with our RF and optical simulation engineers.

Simulation: Supporting Lightium’s simulation activities by contributing to optical and RF simulations using state‑of‑the‑arts simulation environments.

PDK Development: Supporting Lightium’s PDK development by providing block‑level functional models and statistical models involving fabrication and process tolerances.

Collaboration: Work closely with the R&D teams from design, processing, fabrication to optical testing and characterization, contributing to cross‑functional projects to advance our PIC technologies.

Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough documentation of design data and report findings, as well as implement work instructions and scripts for mask generation.

Innovation: Stay up‑to‑date on the latest advancements in photonics, incorporating new metrology techniques and technologies into our R&D landscape.

Educational Background: A degree (MSc or PhD) in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Communications, Material Sciences or a related field.

Experience: First work experience in photonic design at an industrial level. Prior experience with integrated photonics design, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, SiN, InP or related photonics platforms are a plus.

Technical

Skills:

Strong proficiency in GDS mask generation, optical simulations, RF / antenna simulations, design‑rule‑check (DRC), PDK development and improvement. Prior experience with optical proximity correction (OPC) is a plus.

Organization & Documentation: Strong organizational skills to plan your work schedule between multiple projects, clean documentation of design data, following standard working procedures, and use best practices to maintain confidentiality.

Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a fast‑paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in the face of change.

Language

Skills:

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of German or French is an advantage.

A unique opportunity to lead a cutting‑edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics. A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond. Competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP) which reflects your experience and expertise. Home office possibility, generous vacation, full salary insurance under the Pillar 2 pension, and support of fair/conference attendance and continuing education.

Become a key player in an early‑phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.

We'd love to hear from you if you're passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and result‑driven environment. Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.