Senior Photonics Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Photonics Engineer to lead technical decisions across photonic design, simulation, characterization, and test. This is a hands-on role for an experienced engineer who can bridge design and experimentation, guide technology direction, and mentor a growing team.

Responsibilities

• Lead PIC design, simulation, and layout, including waveguides, resonators, filters, splitters, and modulators.
• Own photonics architecture decisions from concept through fabrication and test.
• Define and lead optical/electro-optical test strategies for inertial sensing technologies.
• Develop measurement, signal-processing, and data-analysis workflows using Python, MATLAB, C++, or similar.
• Analyze test data and translate results into design and performance improvements.
• Identify and develop patentable inventions and support patent filings.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate closely with electronics and hardware teams.
• Support optical/electronic component selection and procurement.
• Communicate technical decisions, risks, and recommendations clearly.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or higher in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or related field; M.Sc./Ph.D. preferred.
• 5+ years of industry experience in integrated photonics, optoelectronics, or related fields.
• Strong expertise in PIC design, waveguides, and micro-optical resonators.
• Proficiency with Lumerical, COMSOL, or equivalent simulation tools.
• Hands-on experience with optical device characterization and fiber-coupled systems.
• Strong signal-processing and data-analysis skills.
• Demonstrated technical leadership and independent decision-making.
• Track record of innovation through patents, publications, or product development.

Nice to Have

• Patent filing experience.
• MEMS, cleanroom fabrication, or inertial sensor experience.
• Photonic circuit CAD/layout experience.
• Startup or small-team experience.

This is an opportunity to play a central role in shaping photonics technology-from deciding what to build, to designing it, testing it, and determining where it goes next.

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

Nozipho Mbatha