Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Engineer

We are an innovative deep-tech start-up developing breakthrough technologies for ultra-high-speed optical data transmission. By combining highly scalable silicon photonic integrated circuits with engineered organic electro-optic materials, we are enabling a new generation of high-performance optical devices for tomorrow’s communication networks.

As we expand our team, we are looking for a talented Senior Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Engineer / Scientist to join us in developing cutting-edge Silicon-Organic Hybrid (SOH) photonic technologies from concept through characterization and commercialization.

If you are passionate about integrated photonics, enjoy solving complex engineering challenges, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we would love to hear from you.

Your Role

In this role, you will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and characterization of advanced Silicon-Organic Hybrid (SOH) photonic integrated circuits, with a particular focus on high-speed electro-optic modulators for next-generation optical transceivers operating beyond 1 Tbit/s.

Working closely with internal colleagues, external fabrication partners, and technology collaborators, you will play a key role in transforming innovative concepts into commercially viable products.

Your Responsibilities

• Design and optimize advanced photonic integrated circuits (PICs) using state-of-the-art simulation tools.

• Develop high-speed Silicon-Organic Hybrid electro-optic modulators for next-generation optical communication systems.

• Coordinate fabrication activities with semiconductor foundries and manufacturing partners.

• Plan and perform optical, electrical, and electro-optic characterization using advanced laboratory equipment.

• Analyze measurement data and continuously improve device performance.

• Lead and contribute to collaborative research and development projects with industrial and academic partners.

• Support the development of engineering workflows, laboratory capabilities, and best practices.

• Contribute to building a collaborative, innovative, and high-performing engineering team.

What We’re Looking For

You are an ambitious engineer or scientist who enjoys working at the intersection of research and product development.

Ideally, you have:

• A PhD or an experienced MSc in Photonics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

• A strong theoretical and experimental background in photonic integrated circuits, including design, fabrication, or characterization.

• Experience with industry-standard simulation and design tools such as Lumerical, CST Studio Suite, or RSoft.

• Experience managing PIC tape-outs and collaborating with semiconductor foundries.

• Knowledge of optical communication systems and high-speed photonic devices.

• Experience leading technical or R&D projects.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• A proactive, hands-on approach and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

If you’re excited about developing next-generation photonic technologies and want to help bring groundbreaking innovations to market, we’d love to hear from you.

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

Nozipho Mbatha