Senior Active Photonics R&D Engineer

PsiQuantum

PsiQuantum

Palo Alto, CA, USA
Posted on Feb 2, 2024

PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the world’s first utility-scale, 1 million-plus qubit quantum computer, powered by breakthroughs in silicon photonics and quantum architecture. We were founded in 2015 by the world’s foremost experts in photonic quantum computing and have assembled a world class team dedicated to bringing the world-changing benefits of quantum computing into reality.

Quantum computing is anticipated to unlock the solutions to otherwise impossible computational tasks, with impact across science, technology, and business. By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers are expected to dramatically outperform even the most powerful existing (or future) supercomputers and offer the potential to enable extraordinary advances across a broad range of applications including climate, energy, healthcare, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and more, as well as deliver entirely new industries.

PsiQuantum is uniquely positioned to deliver on the promise of quantum computing. We have already demonstrated that it’s possible to manufacture core quantum components using the standard and scalable manufacturing processes of a world-leading semiconductor fab.

Our team is working across the full stack of quantum computing, from hardware design, manufacturing, and packaging through to quantum architecture and quantum algorithms. We’re a highly integrated, collaborative group and love tackling problems that span across interfaces.

There’s more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Job Summary:

PsiQuantum is seeking an Actives Photonics R&D Engineer to help develop active components and circuits for the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computer.

The candidate will own, with minimum directions, design, modeling, test and data analysis of active photonic devices and circuits. The Photonic Engineer will work closely with other teams withing PsiQuantum (electronics, manufacturing, test, packaging and system validation) to achieve these goals. A successful candidate is expected to have hands-on experience and knowledge in actives photonic technologies.

Responsibilities:

  • Design and simulate novel integrated photonic devices and photonics integrated circuits for quantum computing.
  • Perform experimental characterization on active integrated photonic components and circuits.
  • Interface with dedicated test teams to perform automated high volume tests.
  • Interface with System Validation teams to facilitate system-level demonstrations.
  • Analyze measurement data and optimize photonic device and circuit performance.
  • Collaborate with the photonic engineers, test engineers, materials scientists, electronic engineers, process engineers and packaging engineers to build and characterize high-performance photonic chips and assemblies.
  • Mentor junior staff members.

Experience/Qualifications:

  • MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, optical engineering, or related discipline.
  • Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in integrated photonics technologies, including
    • Deep knowledge and experience in actives and passives photonics device design and modeling, such as waveguides, modulators and detectors
    • Photonics and RF simulation tools such as Lumerical, HFSS, ADS, COMSOL, etc.
    • Experience in characterization of integrated photonic components, including RF characterization of active photonic components
    • Knowledge in modeling of photonic circuits, electro-optical co-simulation of active circuits is a plus
    • Experience in characterization of active photonic circuits is a plus
    • Photonic layout experience (using e.g. IPKISS, GDSFactory, etc.)
    • Photonic layout and tapeout with foundries
  • Proficient in programming language such as Python and Matlab.
  • Experience in programmatic (e.g. using Python) test equipment control and automation.
  • Strong data analysis skills, including visualization and making data-driven design decisions.
  • Solid background in semiconductor physics, electro-optical materials, or nonlinear optics is a plus.
  • Experience in photonic tuning and feedback control is a plus.
  • Experience in cryogenic engineering is a plus.
  • Good understanding of electronic circuits for actives photonic integrated circuits such as drivers and TIAs.
  • Good understanding of photonic foundry process.
  • Collaborative in a multi-disciplinary startup environment.
  • Ability to work independently with limited direction.
  • Proven team player with an ability to work with local and remote team members.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an ability to communicate effectively to various audiences.
  • Strong project management skills.
  • Strong critical thinking, creative, innovative, analytical, and detail oriented problem-solving skills.
  • Industry experience desired.

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

The range below reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all US locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

For a fully qualified candidate, the expected pay range is:

Pay Range
$172,000$205,000 USD