Senior High-Speed Photonic Design Engineer

Taara•Sunnyvale, CA

4d•$220,000 - $270,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Taara is seeking a Senior High-Speed Photonic Design Engineer to work on next-generation photonic and electronic integrated modules as part of the R&D team developing cutting-edge wireless optical communication systems based on integrated optical phased arrays. The successful candidate will own photonic transmitter and receiver architecture, high-speed photonic modulator and detector design, and RF/microwave transmission line design within the very-large-scale photonic integrated circuits (PICs) designed at Taara. The role requires deep expertise in 35-70 GHz RF and photonic designs — including demonstrated design and layout ownership on commercial foundry tapeouts — and extensive experience with the intricacies of modulation formats and communication link budgets. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys working in a small, dynamic team environment, and has a passion for solving challenging problems that lead to high-impact technological advances.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
Five (5) or more years of relevant industry experience with demonstrated achievements in photonic circuit designs.
Extensive expertise in high-speed photonic modulator and detector design.
Extensive expertise in RF/microwave design.
Expertise in the intricacies of optical modulation formats and photonic link modeling.
Experience with RF/microwave design software (HFSS, ADS or equivalent).
Experience with photonic device simulation software (Lumerical or equivalent).
Experience with optical link simulation software (VPIphotonics, Lumerical Interconnect, or equivalent).
Hands-on experience with multiple tapeouts at commercial foundries.

Nice To Haves

Experience in photonic spectral filter design.
Experience with Python, Git, and gdsfactory.
Experience with Design Rule Checks (DRC) and Layout Versus Schematic (LVS).
Experience with commercial layout verification software (Calibre or equivalent).
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to work effectively with senior external partners.
Hands-on experience in advancing a product from the prototype phase to the final production stage.

Responsibilities

Own and deliver record-breaking high-speed photonic integrated circuit designs.
Contribute to system-level optimization and product strategy.
Demonstrate a strong motivation to make the world a better place through technology and a desire to be part of the team making this happen.