Position OverviewWe are seeking a leader to own the architecture, design, and development of advanced silicon photonic devices for our AI acceleration platform. This role is ideal for a highly experienced and motivated engineer with a deep understanding of silicon photonics, including grating couplers, waveguides, semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), and photodetectors, who is excited. The candidate will work closely with the CTO and cross-disciplinary teams to drive the design, validation, and commercialization of cutting-edge photonic modules. Initially, this position will be an individual contributor role, with the potential to build and lead a team in the future.
LocationAustin, TX or San Jose, CA. Full-time onsite position.
Key Responsibilities- Develop and maintain an end-to-end system link budget.
- Architect, design, model, and optimize complex silicon photonic devices, including grating couplers, waveguides, SOAs, and photodetectors, for high-speed AI computing applications.
- Collaborate with external foundries to develop manufacturable designs using process design kits (PDKs) and ensure successful tape-out of silicon photonic components.
- Perform design-for-manufacturing (DFM) and design-for-test (DFT) evaluations to ensure scalability and robust production.
- Conduct and interpret optical simulations using industry-standard tools (e.g., Lumerical, Ansys, COMSOL, or equivalent).
- Work with optical fiber assemblies and ensure seamless integration with high-speed photonic systems.
- Perform experimental validation and characterization of silicon photonic devices in the lab.
- Collaborate closely with optomechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure system-level integration.
- Lead design reviews and contribute to the development of optical test plans, specifications, and manufacturing guidelines.
- Support the development of intellectual property (IP) and contribute to patent filings related to novel silicon photonic designs.
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the continuous improvement of silicon photonics design methodologies.
Qualifications- PhD in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 3+ years of industry experience in silicon photonics design
- 5+ years of electromagnetic simulation experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in designing and optimizing photonic integrated circuits, including grating couplers, waveguides, SOAs, and photodetectors.
- Proven track record of taking silicon photonic devices from concept through to commercial production using leading foundries.
- Hands-on experience working with PDKs, performing DFM/DFT, and managing tape-outs.
- Experience characterizing and validating silicon photonic devices in a laboratory environment.
- Familiarity with optical fiber coupling and high-speed photonics applications.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical information to diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Skills- Industry experience in optical communications, quantum computing, optical computing, or augmented reality (AR).
- Knowledge of advanced photonic integration techniques and emerging photonics technologies.
- Experience with high-speed photonics and signal integrity in integrated systems.
- Proficiency in scripting or programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for design automation and analysis.
- Demonstrated leadership experience or the potential to build and manage a technical team.
What We OfferThis is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in an innovative startup redefining the future of AI hardware. Work on a game-changing technology at the intersection of photonics and AI as part of a collaborative and brilliant team. You'll contribute to a platform that redefines computational performance and accelerates the future of artificial intelligence. Come help us bring this transformative technology to the world.
BenefitsJoin a team that invests in your future and your well-being. At Neurophos, we offer:
- 100% coverage of base health plan premiums for you and your dependents, plus HSA contributions.
- Unlimited PTO. No rigid vacation banks, just a focus on delivery.
- 401(k) matching and stock option opportunities to ensure our success is your success.
- Full suite of voluntary benefits, including Dental, Vision, Life, Hospital, Critical Illness, and Accident insurance.
- Personalized Benefits. Choose the plans that fit your life and take the cash back for those that don't.
