Photonics Layout Engineer (Remote)

Voyant Photonics · Remote, United States

Photonics Layout Engineer (Remote) About us:
They power next generation, chip-scale FMCW LiDAR for robotics and autonomy, and optical circuit switches (OCS) for AI data centers. Based in NYC, we’re a hands-on team designing, building, and deploying frontier hardware to solve problems that matter, from how machines see to how AI scales.
At Voyant, youll help develop some of the most sophisticated silicon photonic chips, spanning two applications: optical circuit switching for AI data centers and chip-scale LiDAR sensing.
Our PICs integrate hundreds to thousands of optical components, requiring innovative layout approaches that balance optical performance, chip dimensions, and manufacturability.
As a Photonic Layout Engineer, youll take ownership of PIC layouts from initial floorplanning through tapeout. Youll have the opportunity to develop automated layout methodologies, solve complex routing challenges, and work closely with photonic designers and other engineering teams in a fast-paced startup environment.
Develop and implement layouts for complex photonic integrated circuits, from component-level test structures to large-scale system PICs.
Create Python-based scripts and automation tools for layout generation, routing, and design verification.
Integrate photonic and electrical layouts, including electrical routing, contact pads, and packaging interfaces.
Collaborate with photonic designers, packaging engineers, and foundry partners to optimize layouts and support tapeout submissions.
S. in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
~2+ years of experience in photonic integrated circuit layout, preferably in silicon photonics or a similar platform.
~ Strong Python scripting skills, including experience with layout automation or parameterized designs.
~ Experience with large-scale PIC layout, optical switching networks, or complex photonic routing architectures.
Experience with multilayer silicon/silicon nitride photonic platforms and interlayer optical transitions.
Familiarity with Cadence Virtuoso, SKILL, or electrical layout and EDA integration.
Experience with photonic-electronic co-layout, packaging interfaces, or commercial silicon photonics foundry tapeouts.
We build frontier hardware & systems from our lab and office in Midtown Manhattan, where optical tables, lab benches and electronics sit alongside traditional office space. We partner with customers across time zones, so some calls start early or run late, and we adjust schedules around them. Voyant provides catered lunch every day at HQ, and we’re a diverse group of food lovers from around the world who enjoy sharing food, culture and technical ideas around the lunch table.
Voyant Photonics is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital or partnership status, age, national origin, citizenship, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, or any other characteristic protected by law.