Senior Photonics Engineer – Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC)

Our client is an innovative deep-tech startup developing breakthrough technologies for ultra-high-speed data transmission. By combining advanced electro-optic materials with scalable silicon photonic integrated circuits, they are enabling a new generation of highly efficient optical communication systems.

To strengthen their growing team, they are looking for a motivated and entrepreneurial engineer or scientist who is excited to work at the forefront of photonics innovation.

Your Role

As a Senior Photonics Engineer, you will play a key role in the development of advanced photonic integrated circuits (PICs), with a particular focus on high-speed electro-optic modulators for future optical transceivers operating beyond 1 Tbit/s.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Designing, simulating, fabricating, and characterizing advanced PICs and photonic devices.
• Developing innovative electro-optic modulator concepts and related photonic components.
• Performing optical and electromagnetic simulations using state-of-the-art numerical design tools.
• Coordinating with internal and external fabrication partners throughout the development process.
• Planning and conducting device characterization using advanced optical and electrical measurement equipment.
• Initiating and leading collaborative projects with technology and research partners.
• Contributing to the development of our laboratory infrastructure, engineering processes, and technical roadmap.
• Supporting the growth of a highly motivated team dedicated to technological excellence.

Your Profile

You are passionate about translating advanced research into real-world technology and thrive in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.

You ideally bring:

• A PhD or an experienced MSc degree in Photonics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Strong theoretical and experimental expertise in photonic integration, including PIC design, fabrication, and/or testing.
• Experience with industry-standard PIC design and simulation tools such as Lumerical, CST Studio Suite, RSoft, or equivalent software.
• Experience with PIC tape-outs and collaboration with semiconductor foundries or fabrication partners.
• Knowledge of optical communication systems and high-speed photonic devices.
• Experience leading research and development projects.
• A proactive, flexible, and solution-oriented mindset.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to develop cutting-edge photonic technologies with global impact.
• A highly innovative startup environment with significant responsibility and influence.
• Close collaboration with leading industrial and academic partners.
• Access to state-of-the-art development and measurement infrastructure.
• A dynamic international team committed to excellence, creativity, and innovation.
• Competitive compensation and opportunities for professional growth.

Interested?

We look forward to hearing from talented individuals who are eager to push the boundaries of photonic technology and help build the next generation of optical communication systems.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Nozipho Mbatha