Senior Photonics PDK Design Automation Engineer

About the Role

Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. We invented the world’s first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™, capable of connecting thousands to millions of processors at the speed of light in extreme-scale data centers for the most advanced AI and HPC workloads. Having raised $400 million in our Series D round and reaching a valuation of $4.4 billion, we are accelerating the development of data center photonics and growing every department. Join our team of brilliant scientists, engineers, and industry leaders to tackle complex challenges and (re)invent the future of computing with light!

We are hiring a Photonics PDK Design Automation Engineer to develop our internal Process Design Kit (PDK). You will act as the architect of our component library, bridging the gap between photonics device design and system-level verification. Your work will ensure our simulation environment accurately predicts the behavior of physical layouts, using Python, EDA tools, and software engineering rigor to address photonic hardware design challenges.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a library of pcells using Python-based layout frameworks.
• Ensure strict synchronization between physical layout, logical netlists, and behavioral models.
• Develop and maintain custom photonic Layout vs Schematic (LVS) decks across multiple foundry technologies.
• Design and test device and parameter extraction for innovative photonic devices.
• Troubleshoot and resolve LVS mismatches in complex analog and photonic circuits.
• Collaborate with design, layout, modeling, and infrastructure engineers to deliver high-impact tape-outs.
• Implement regression testing and Continuous Integration (CI) pipelines to ensure PDK updates do not break legacy designs or connectivity logic.
• Contribute to PDK, DRC, and automation projects as needed.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Photonics, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in LVS deck development for Siemens Calibre, Cadence Pegasus, and/or Synopsys IC Validator.
• Experience troubleshooting and resolving LVS mismatches in complex circuit designs.
• Experience with photonics layout and Python-based layout frameworks.
• Proficiency in Python, including object-oriented programming and scientific libraries (NumPy, SciPy).
• Experience with scripting languages such as SVRF, Tcl, Bash, and SKILL.
• In-depth knowledge of integrated photonic devices, analog devices, and parasitics.
• Familiarity with foundry processes (SOI, etching, implants, metal stacks).
• Proficiency with Linux, Git, and software engineering best practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills for complex, non-obvious challenges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Python-based layout tools such as gdstk, GDSFactory, and KLayout.
• Familiarity with Git setup, version control, unit testing (pytest), and CI/CD workflows.
• Prior experience in physical layout using foundry-provided PDKs, adhering to design rules and constraints.
• Experience with DRC deck and rule development.
• Experience with large-scale designs using Cadence Virtuoso or similar tools.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong project execution skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet milestones.

Pay

Salary Range: $165,000 USD - $200,000 USD. Total compensation includes base salary, a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Savings Matching Program
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Paid Family Leave
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Commuter Benefits
• Flexible, hybrid workplace model
• Equity grants (for full-time employees)

Benefits eligibility may vary based on employment status and location.

Lightmatter is an equal opportunity employer, recruiting, employing, and promoting regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected statuses as required by law. Candidates must comply with U.S. export control laws.