Senior Silicon Photonics PIC Design Engineer

Job Title

Senior Silicon Photonics PIC Design Engineer

Role Summary

Lead the design, simulation, layout, and system-level validation of silicon photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for high-performance optical interconnects. Work across device, packaging, process, and system teams to deliver manufacturable photonic components and validated link-level performance.

Experience Level

Senior — expects advanced experience; hiring guidance specifies 10+ years with a Master’s or 7+ years with a PhD in relevant fields.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include design, simulation, integration, and validation of PICs, and coordination with cross-functional teams.

• Design and validate photonic components using simulation tools such as Ansys/Lumerical and Cadence Virtuoso.
• Develop layouts and collaborate with layout engineers to produce manufacturable PIC designs.
• Define and optimize device designs with fab/process engineers and implement process monitoring structures.
• Develop test and qualification plans and coordinate validation with quality engineering teams.
• Validate link and system performance with EIC designers, packaging engineers, and system architects.
• Perform RF/Signal Integrity simulation and optimization for high-speed modulators, photodetectors, and electrical subsystems.
• Automate data analysis and layout tasks using programming and scripting (for example, Python).

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience for this role.

• Proven proficiency with photonic simulation and design tools (Ansys/Lumerical, Cadence Virtuoso).
• Extensive RF/Signal Integrity simulation experience for high-speed modulators, photodetectors, and electrical subsystems.
• Hands-on design experience with high-speed active optical devices (e.g., MZM, MRM) and passive components (couplers, splitters, PSR, WDM).
• Experience developing test/qualification plans and coordinating validation activities.
• Programming/scripting skills for data analysis, modeling, and layout automation (e.g., Python).
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills and demonstrated cross-functional collaboration.
• Nice-to-have: experience with PCB/TIA/driver circuits, full transceiver systems, packaging considerations, and close fab/process integration.

Education Requirements

Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience, OR PhD in a related field with 7+ years of relevant experience.

About the Company

Company: Broadcom

Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States

Broadcom is a global technology leader that designs, develops, and supplies a wide range of semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. The company is known for its innovations in wireless and broadband communications, enabling a connected world.