Full Job Description
Your role and responsibilities:
The successful candidate will join the Low Temperature Devices team to develop cutting-edge superconducting single-photon detector (SNSPD) components, which are critical to Xanadu's fault-tolerant architecture. In this role, you will help develop our internal PDK, with a focus on complex multiplexed multi-pixel detector arrays. You will also lead mask design for fabrication process optimization, bridging the gap between simulation and experiment by designing advanced test structures and production tape-outs. This position offers unique design experience with state-of-the-art foundry processes through Xanadu's 300mm fabrication partners and rapid 100mm in-house development.
Key responsibilities
• Capture device layout requirements through close collaboration with the team's low temperature device scientists.
• Design and execute GDS mask layouts for test structures and production tape-outs, ensuring high-quality fabrication outputs.
• Perform device-level simulations and develop automated pipelines to integrate design environments with simulation tools.
• Regularly interact with the Xanadu Fabrication Engineering team to align design strategies with fabrication capabilities and constraints.
• Other simulation or computational projects that aligns with the hire's expertise
• Drive improvements in key SNSPD performance metrics through layout optimization and innovative design strategies.
Required qualifications and experience:
• MSc or PhD in Engineering, Science, or related field, with 2+ years of experience in an industrial setting
• Expert-level experience with scripted photonic mask design/layout with one or more of the following tools: gdsfactory, ipkiss3, Virtuoso, OptoDesigner, or similar tools.
• Expert-level knowledge and experience in performing physical verification with homemade and/or foundry-provided codes, including DRC (design rule check) and LVS (layout versus schematic) to ensure manufacturing compliance and netlist integrity
• Expert-level experience with generating layout in the format of GDSII/OAS in MPW and dedicated full mask sets
• Experience working in a collaborative team-based development environment, preferably using version control systems such as Git
• Experience collaborating with internal teams and external partners across process integration, packaging, and fabrication
• Experience using Python for component design, simulation, layout, and data analysis
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-disciplinary environment
• Strong attention to detail and a rigorous, data-driven approach to problem solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred qualifications and experience:
• Background in developing superconducting single photon detectors, circuits and devices.
• Experience designing layouts for superconducting devices (e.g., SNSPDs) and a strong understanding of their operational principles.
• Expertise in layout techniques that account for fabrication effects, such as lithographic rounding, OPC/bias correction, and material non-uniformity, to optimize component performance.
• Simulation experience for device-level modeling (e.g., COMSOL)
This is for a new position. Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and internal benchmarks. You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.