Senior Photonics Characterization Engineer - 100%

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology?

Lightium, a leading-edge photonics startup, is looking for a skilled Senior Photonics Characterization Engineer to spearhead the development of new measurement tools and techniques for our innovative thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of photonics solutions while collaborating with top academic institutions.

Position Summary

As a Senior Photonics Characterization Engineer, you will define, develop and optimize new electro-optical test and measurement methods to advance our TFLN-based PIC platforms.

Your contributions will be pivotal in continuing the innovation at our state-of-the-art metrology lab in our cleanroom, bringing our cutting‑edge photonic technologies from concept to mass manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Procedures: Define and implement best-in-class electro‑optical RF measurement methods and standard operating procedures for Lightium’s TFLN-based PIC technology in collaboration with its internal and external stakeholders.
• Technical

Work: Conduct electro‑optical and RF measurements at die and wafer level with data rates exceeding 200 Gb/s and analog bandwidths exceeding 100 GHz.

Strong background in fiber‑to‑chip coupling (grating‑ and edge coupling).

• Lab

Automation: Automation of Lightium’s automated wafer prober platform using a python-based scripting language.

Laboratory automation of RF and optical high‑speed equipment.

Maintaining a well‑structured database.

• Collaboration: Work closely with the R&D teams from design to optical testing and characterisation, contributing to cross‑functional projects to advance our TFLN technologies.

Occasional travel to Lightium’s customers and test partners.

• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough documentation and report findings, as well as establishing standard‑operating procedures and training new colleagues.
• Innovation: Stay up‑to‑date on the latest advancements in photonics, incorporating new techniques and technologies into our metrology landscape.

Contribution to Lightium’s IP portfolio.

• What You’ll Bring
• Educational Background: An advanced degree (Ph D or Postdoc) in Communication, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience: At least 3 years work experience in RF and optical measurements at die and wafer level, ideally at industrial scale.

Prior experience with integrated photonics, such as TFLN, silicon photonics, Si N, In P or related photonics platforms.

• Technical

Skills: Proficiency in die‑level and wafer‑level testing.

Strong background in lab automation and programming languages like Python, Opentap, C++ or C#.

Prior experience with wafer‑level test platforms like MPI, Formfactor or Cascade is a plus.

Experience with VNAs, LCAs and related calibration techniques is a plus.

• Organization & Documentation: Strong organisational skills to plan your work schedule between multiple facilities, record your results and procedures follow facilities’ guidelines, and use best practices to maintain confidentiality.
• Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and with international customers.
• Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a fast‑paced startup environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in the face of change.
• Language Skills: Fluency in English is required; knowledge of German, French or an Asian language is an advantage.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP), fully‑covered Pillar Two, and generous vacation.
• A unique opportunity to lead a cutting‑edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond.
• Final Thoughts

We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and result‑driven environment.

Become a key player in an early‑phase startup and join a motivated and energetic team.

You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and develop your professional skills at a fast pace.

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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