Photonics Design Engineer

Job Title

Photonics Design Engineer

Role Summary

Design, optimise, and develop high-performance photonic components for Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) to support tape-outs and the core IP roadmap. Work with photonic designers, layout engineers, fabrication and test teams to improve device performance through simulation, modelling, and validation.

This is a technical R&D role focused on advancing integrated photonics for scalable optical switching and high port-count architectures.

Experience Level

Senior / Lead / Principal level - exact level depends on candidate experience. Years of experience not specified.

Responsibilities

Main responsibilities include design, simulation, validation, and integration of photonic components into PIC flows.

• Design and optimise integrated photonic components for silicon photonics and related PIC platforms.
• Perform electromagnetic simulations, modelling, and theoretical analysis to improve device performance.
• Validate simulation results against experimental measurement data and iterate designs.
• Develop innovative component designs informed by current research and emerging techniques.
• Collaborate with layout engineers to integrate components into PDK libraries and tape-out flows.
• Work with fabrication and testing teams to iterate on device performance and manufacturability.
• Contribute to the product roadmap for future photonic components and architectures.
• Support long-term improvements in PIC loss, manufacturability, and scalability.
• Participate in technical discussions, design reviews, and cross-functional problem solving.
• Keep current with advances in integrated photonics through literature and conferences.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience for performing the duties above.

• Strong theoretical understanding of guided optics and photonic device physics.
• Hands-on experience designing and simulating integrated photonic components.
• Experience with silicon photonics or InP photonic platforms and their design constraints.
• Experience using photonic simulation tools and modelling workflows.
• Proven ability to validate simulations against measurements and refine designs.
• Proficiency in Python for simulation, data analysis, and automation.
• Strong analytical and mathematical problem-solving capability.
• Track record of technical contributions (publications, patents, or shipped technology).
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Nice-to-have:

• Deep understanding of Photonic IC design and fabrication flows.
• Knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes and commercial R&D/product development experience.
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail.

Education Requirements

PhD, or equivalent industry experience, in Photonics, Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field; equivalent practical industry experience accepted.

About the Company

Company: Salience Labs

Headquarters: Oxford, United Kingdom

Salience Labs develops integrated photonics technologies and solutions, focusing on experimental characterisation, device development and engineering for advanced optical and photonic systems. They work across photonic design, manufacturing and system testing, supporting R&D and product development.