Senior Photonics Design Engineer - SOA
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 20, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 25, 2026.
The Role
As part of OpenLight’s Silicon Photonics (SiPh) team, you will be responsible for the development, design, and integration of Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers (SOAs) in OpenLight’s heterogeneous silicon-IIIV photonic platform.
You’ll work on device design, defining characterization and validation, and building compact models for OpenLight’s PDK, using your knowledge of III-V opto-electronic device theory, data analysis, and optical modeling. You'll also work cross-functionally with PIC architects, RF, process, layout, test and reliability engineers to define, design, integrate and validate high-power and high-speed optoelectronic devices using OpenLight’s SiPh technology.
What You Will Do
Design and simulate SOAs and other optoelectronic components, and execute development runs
Define device CAD layouts in close collaboration with process and layout engineers
Develop compact models for III-V devices in OpenLight’s SiPh PDK
Work with process engineers to define and optimize the device structures and processes
Work closely with test engineering to define the test scope and requirements for devices on both wafer and die levels
Work with reliability engineering to define qualification and reliability strategy, and perform device centric failure analysis in close collaboration with process and reliability engineers
Work closely with PIC and system architects to validate device performance versus specifications
Your Background Includes
Academic Degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Material Science, Applied Physics or related discipline
1+ years of relevant professional experience after degree
Strong hands-on knowledge of III-V photonic devices in particular amplifiers
Knowledge of photonics simulation techniques (EME, FDTD) and hands-on experience with commercial design and modelling software (Lumerical, Rsoft, Photon Design or similar)
Good understanding of integrated photonics and semiconductor Si and III-V processing
Proficiency in programming with scripting languages, preferably Python
Understanding of opto-electronic device requirements for datacom and LiDAR applications
Hands-on experience with photonic device characterization. High-speed RF measurement is a plus, but not required
Strong problem-solving, communication, organizational, interpersonal and presentation skills
About OpenLight
OpenLight is growing as customer adoption and industry momentum continue to accelerate. The rapid growth of AI and cloud infrastructure is driving unprecedented demand for faster, more energy-efficient optical connectivity. We are addressing this challenge through a platform approach that simplifies the development of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and accelerates industry adoption.
As part of our team, you will contribute to technologies that enable AI and hyperscale data centers, high-speed optical communications, advanced sensing applications, next-generation photonic integration, and more. Our team is collaborative and fast-moving, and you will have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions across technology, operations, and business growth.
If you are excited about solving challenging problems, advancing cutting-edge technology, and working with a highly collaborative team, we would love to hear from you.