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Photonic IC Designer - Help Launch the Next Generation of Optical Computing!Gardena, CA (Onsite)Opportunity SummaryA stealth-mode deep tech startup is on a mission to redefine high-speed computing by building full-stack optical systems, from silicon to factory floor. Backed by experienced founders and early-stage investors, we're developing a scalable platform that blends photonics, advanced manufacturing, and custom hardware into a vertically integrated solution. We're hiring a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Designer to own the development of our core photonic chips. This role combines simulation, layout, tape-out, and close collaboration with test and packaging teams to ensure our first product meets performance, yield, and production readiness standards.About UsWe're a Los Angeles-based startup operating in stealth, focused on building the foundation for scalable, light-powered computing. Our founding team includes deep tech veterans with experience across hardware, optics, and manufacturing automation. We're creating novel optical hardware alongside custom software and facilities designed to manufacture it at scale all under one roof.Job DutiesOwn design and layout of next-gen silicon photonics chips for high-performance optical interconnectsWork with foundry PDKs, and extend them where needed with custom compact models, layout cells, or verification checksUse FDTD and EM solvers to simulate and optimize waveguides, couplers, interferometers, and other photonic components for loss, phase, and bandwidthDevelop and oversee test plans, including wafer probing and benchtop measurements to validate device behavior against simulationCollaborate across electrical, mechanical, and software teams to optimize full-system link budgets, thermal profiles, and control schemesSupport bring-up, debug, and iteration during prototype validation and production ramp-upMentor junior engineers and contribute to building a high-performance photonic design teamQualificationsMS or PhD in Optics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or Applied Physics5+ years of hands-on experience designing photonic ICs, with at least one completed tape-out for productionProficiency with photonic layout tools and FDTD/EM simulation softwareUnderstanding of optical link characterization and integration with electronic driversStrong fundamentals in waveguide design, optical loss modeling, and photonic systemsAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, iterative development environmentPreferred ExperienceExperience with LiNbO?, SOA/EDFA integration, or coherent Tx/Rx architecturesFamiliarity with control firmware (Python, C++) for electro-optic and thermo-optic tuningUnderstanding of high-speed modulation formats and photonic packaging strategiesComfort designing for manufacturing yield and reliability in volume production environmentsWhy Join UsBe a key contributor to the development of core photonic technology in a venture-backed startupWork closely with a multidisciplinary technical team on cutting-edge hardwareEarly equity and ownership opportunities in a company poised for scaleFlexible work culture and high autonomyPaid parental leave and generous vacation policyComprehensive health, dental, and vision insuranceRelocation support to Los AngelesCompensation Details$140,000 - $200,000 plus equity#LI-AV