Photonics PDK Modeling Engineer at Lightmatter

Compensation

$187,000 – $220,000/yr

Setup: Hybrid
Location: Mountain View, California
Type: Full-time
Posted: Jul 2, 2026

Description

Lightmatter is seeking a Photonics PDK Modeling Engineer to lead the development of their internal Process Design Kit (PDK). This role involves creating and verifying behavioral compact models for photonic components, developing robust compact models for active and passive components, and working extensively in Python to apply software engineering rigor to photonic hardware design.

Required Skills

Python
electromagnetic solvers
Lumerical INTERCONNECT
Cadence
Synopsys OptSim

Additional Information

Required Previous Experiences: +5 years experience
+3 years experience
Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with GDSFactory, OptoCompiler or KLayout Python scripting.
Experience with Python-native circuit simulation ecosystems (e.g., SAX, Photontorch, Simphony).
Experience with Git version control, unit testing (pytest), and CI/CD workflows.
Prior experience in performing physical layout using foundry-provided process design kits (PDKs), adhering to specific design rules and constraints.
Experience in taping out and testing large-scale photonic integrated circuits, including familiarity with relevant testing equipment and methodologies.
Experience doing inverse design
Possess strong project execution skills, demonstrating the ability to effectively manage multiple design priorities, adhere to project timelines, and meet critical milestones.

About Lightmatter

Lightmatter

digital healthNew York

Lightmatter is an agency of product strategists, UX/UI designers, and software developers based in the US that build health-tech applications. Meet our team!