Photonic Design Engineer at Lucidean

As a Photonic Design Engineer on our team, you’ll help us develop next-generation optical link solutions for AI networks and data centers.

Location: Santa Barbara, California

Company Overview:

Lucidean is a startup specializing in next‑generation optical link solutions. We’re expanding and seeking a Photonic Design Engineer to make a transformative impact on data centers and AI computing.

Role Overview:

The rapid evolution of AI networks has created an urgent need for innovative fiber-optic communication solutions that incorporate photonic integrated circuits (PICs). As a pivotal member of our team, you will drive the development of PICs through design, simulation, and testing.

Key Responsibilities:

· Design, simulate, and optimize passive and active photonic components using a variety of simulation tools such as RSoft, Lumerical, HFSS, EMPro, COMSOL, Sentaurus, and Silvaco.

· Plan and execute Design of Experiments (DOEs) to optimize photonic components.

· Design layouts for high-speed optical transmitters and receivers on tools such as OptoCompiler, Luceda IPKISS, and GDS Factory.

· Perform system-level simulations, integrating both simulated and real test data, using tools such as OptSim and VPI.

· Oversee assembly, packaging, and integration of PICs with electronic components on PCBs.

· Define and implement standardized test plans for photonic components and PICs.

· Conduct comprehensive testing and validation of high-speed PICs and optoelectronic assemblies, including transmitters and receivers.

· Define and execute reliability studies and failure analysis for photonic components, PICs, and optoelectronic assemblies.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

· M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.

· 5+ years of industry or research experience in Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) simulation, layout, and design for manufacturability.

· Hands‑on experience developing and executing test plans for PICs.

· Proficiency in the simulation and design tools listed under Key Responsibilities.

· Strong teamwork, collaboration, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

· Familiarity with optical communications principles.

· Reliability and failure analysis experience.

· Solid understanding of co-simulation of electronic and photonic components.

Why Join Lucidean?

· Get involved in projects that significantly advance our computing infrastructure.

· Work alongside a dedicated team focused on making a tangible impact.

· Contribute to a flexible and dynamic startup environment with a culture of continuous learning and development.

· Competitive salary, equity options, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Lucidean provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. Lucidean does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.