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← Lightmatter

Staff Photonics Design & PDK Modeling Engineer

Lightmatter
Location
Boston, MA
Posted
2 months ago
Department
Photonics & Silicon Engineering
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Master’s +5 years experience or PhD +3 years experience in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or related field
  • Deep understanding of photonic device physics and experience in device simulation
  • Experience building behavioral models for circuit simulators (e.g., Lumerical INTERCONNECT, Cadence, Synopsys OptSim, or custom Python solvers)
  • Experienced in Python for modeling, automation, and data analysis
  • Python based layout experience
Nice to have
  • Familiarity with GDSFactory, OptoCompiler, or KLayout Python scripting
  • Experience with Python-native circuit simulation ecosystems (e.g., SAX, Photontorch, Simphony)
  • Experience with Git version control, unit testing (pytest), and CI/CD workflows
  • Prior experience in performing physical layout using foundry-provided process design kits (PDKs)
  • Experience in taping out and testing large-scale photonic integrated circuits
What the job really is

As a Staff Photonics Design Engineer at Lightmatter, you will lead the development of the internal Process Design Kit (PDK) and create robust compact models for photonic components. Your work will involve developing a library of pcells, validating simulation models against lab measurements, and ensuring synchronization between physical layouts and behavioral models. You will heavily utilize Python for modeling and automation while implementing automated workflows and regression testing to maintain design integrity.

Benefits
  • Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Savings Matching Program
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
Things to weigh
  • No specific mention of company culture or team dynamics
  • Salary range provided but total compensation details are somewhat vague
  • Role involves significant responsibility in ensuring design integrity and validation against physical measurements
Job score2.8/5
Benefits5/5
Freshness1/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity4/5
Pay transparency0/5

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