Lead Photonics Design Engineer

The ever growing technological advances in computing, communication, and sensing depend on photonics. PINC builds the transformative integrated photonic platform to address these needs and make that future possible. Our proprietary NanoPPLN photonic platform is based on pioneering advancements from the Nonlinear Photonics Laboratory at Caltech. PINC is an early-stage startup with venture backing from leading financial investors and major global photonics companies.

We are growing quickly and looking for passionate, highly driven, and self-disciplined individuals to join us on this journey, who are excited to push the boundaries of Photonic technologies. This is an excellent opportunity for people who excel in a fast-paced environment, approach challenges with a “can-do” mindset, and work collaboratively to inspire others while helping to build a strong team around them and with them as we scale the company together.

The Opportunity
We are seeking a Lead Photonics Design Engineer to join our team and lead the design and validation of integrated photonic circuit components and systems.

This role is ideal for a technically rigorous and creative Photonics Engineer with deep expertise in linear integrated photonics design and familiarity with nonlinear optics and a strong command of the full PIC development workflow. As the Lead Photonics Design Engineer, you will play a central role in developing next-generation solutions that drive the performance and scalability of PINC’s photonic platform.

Responsibilities
Lead the design, simulation, layout, and delivery of high-performance passive and/or active photonic components in thin-film lithium niobate for both internal team and external customers.
Support and/or lead the design and implementation of nonlinear elements in PINC’s integrated photonic products
Simulate and optimize photonic devices using a variety of optical simulation tools such as Lumerical, Tidy3D, PhotonD, and COMSOL and custom nonlinear simulation tools.
Analyze experimental data to evaluate design robustness, yield, and tolerance to fabrication variation.
Conduct tolerance analysis, yield optimization, and process variation analysis.
Collaborate across the team to design optical subassemblies, optimize device structure and processes, and create test and qualification plans
Support technical communication through white papers, grant applications, and external collaborations.

Requirements
Ph.D. degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field
Extensive experience in design and optimization of photonic integrated circuit components using photonic simulation tools
Familiarity with the full PIC development workflow, including layout design (e.g., using KLayout), fabrication processes, and device operation.
Hands-on experience with PIC fabrication and testing.
Strong problem-solving skills and a demonstrated ability to lead technical development in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Preferred Experience and Skills
2+ years of experience in startup or early-stage R&D environments with rapid iteration cycles.
Demonstrated expertise in simulating nonlinear photonic components and systems.
Experience with RF simulation and optimization
Experience in experimental nonlinear optics, including second- and third-order effects, and experience with ultrafast laser systems
Experience in operating test equipment such as oscilloscopes, swept laser systems, source measurement units, OSAs, ESAs, and auto-correlators

Benefits
Exceptional opportunities for professional growth and learning
Stock option plan
Competitive health care plan (Medical, dental & vision)
Retirement plan with company match
Paid time off (Vacation, sick & public holidays)
Life insurance
Short term and long term disability
Company-sponsored team outings

Life in Pasadena
Our office is located in the heart of Pasadena, a world-class hub for science, technology, and entrepreneurship, with close ties to Caltech and Southern California’s broader innovation community, and access to vibrant neighborhoods, culture, dining, and outdoor activities, all within minutes of Los Angeles. We prefer candidates who can work from our Pasadena, CA office, with flexibility for a hybrid schedule.
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