Cisco

Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Cisco$122K — $172K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 5+ years of engineering experience
  • Experience in designing passive and active silicon photonics components
  • Proficiency in software modeling tools such as Ansys/Lumerical, Silvaco, or Photon Design
  • Experience with CAD layout tools like Cadence Virtuoso or kLayout
  • Preferred: Master's degree or PhD in relevant fields, with corresponding experience
  • Familiarity with optical test equipment and microwave measurement techniques

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop integrated optical devices for Cisco's silicon photonics transceivers
  • Collaborate with a team of designers to enable advanced optical transceiver products
  • Create modulators and photodetectors, including device design and high-speed testing
  • Work with foundry engineers to optimize manufacturing processes
  • Liaise with product team IC designers to refine device models and performance parameters

Benefits

  • Flexible work location across the U.S.
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in silicon photonics
  • Collaboration with a talented team of engineers
  • Access to advanced optical test equipment and methodologies
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 06/29/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

This role can be performed from any location within the United States.

Your Impact

As a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development and qualification of integrated optical devices used in Cisco silicon photonics transceivers
  • Work within a team of silicon photonics designers on integrated optical devices to enable the next generation of Cisco optical transceiver products
  • Develop modulators and photodetector through device design, layout of test and characterization structures, testing (including high speed) and reliability qualification to make them ready for use in products
  • Interact with the foundry and its engineers to optimize the manufacturing process and select process parameters
  • Interface with product team IC designers to deliver device models and optimize the performance parameters of the optoelectronic devices to match with drivers and TIAs


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 5+ years of experience an engineering role
  • Experience designing passive and active silicon photonics components (e.g. grating couplers, photodetectors, modulators, filters) or subsystems that use them.
  • Experience using software modeling tools such as Ansys/Lumerical, Silvaco, or Photon Design.
  • Experience using CAD layout tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, kLayout, etc.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 3+ years of experience in an engineering role or PhD in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 0+ years of experience.
  • Experience with optical test equipment (e.g. tunable lasers, detectors, OSA, VNA) and microwave measurement techniques, as well as with statistical analysis tools (e.g. JMP).
  • Experience with the design of integrated electronic circuits that interface with active silicon photonics components (e.g., TIAs, modulator drivers).

About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
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