Manager, Passive Components

PsiQuantum•Palo Alto, CA

About The Position

PsiQuantum is building a general-purpose silicon photonic quantum computer intended to solve problems beyond the reach of conventional computing. The Manager, Passive Components leads a group developing high-performance integrated photonic components and circuits for a linear optic quantum computer. The role is responsible for the design, optimization, integration, and validation of photonic structures, devices, and subsystems, and works across device, hardware, software, component, and systems teams. The position also leads development of simulation automation and infrastructure, along with a device library and process design kit (PDK) for passive photonic components. It supports foundry tapeouts and applies quantitative analysis to troubleshoot technical issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective solutions. The role requires deep knowledge of integrated photonic device design and validation, strong programming skills, and experience with electromagnetic simulation and photonic optimization techniques. This is a full-time position with geographic-zone-based U.S. compensation. The estimated annual base salary ranges are: Zone 1, $201,400–$236,600; Zone 2, $181,200–$212,900; Zone 3, $161,100–$189,300; and Zone 4, $140,900–$165,600. Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Benefits include health coverage, a 401(k) with company match, equity grants, financial wellness resources, wellness benefits, family support programs, life and disability insurance, paid leave, paid holidays, discretionary time off, and an end-of-year company shutdown. Eligibility and availability may vary by location, role, or employment status.

Requirements

PhD or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Materials Science, or Physics.
At least 10 years of relevant work or academic research experience in integrated photonics.
At least 2 years of project and/or people management experience.
Strong leadership and organizational skills.
Strong fundamentals in photonic device and circuit design and characterization.
Strong fundamentals in electromagnetic theory.
Extensive experience with simulation platforms, particularly Lumerical, for designing and simulating photonic devices and circuits.
Ability to work effectively across departments, sites, and time zones.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong analytical, detail-oriented problem-solving skills.
Proven experience executing complex cross-departmental projects.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Python-based layout tools.
Experience with foundry tapeouts.

Responsibilities

Lead development of passive photonic components.
Work with device, hardware, and software design teams to support development of photonics and quantum-optics systems and devices.
Lead development of simulation automation techniques and infrastructure for photonic device design, model development, and performance validation.
Lead development of a photonic device library and process design kit (PDK) for passive photonic components.
Support foundry tapeouts through photonic device design, design of experiments, layout, device validation, data analysis, failure-mode analysis, and troubleshooting.
Provide multidisciplinary support to component and systems teams by resolving technical issues involving components, parts, products, or systems.
Use quantitative analysis to determine root causes of technical problems and propose, develop, and implement corrective solutions.