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Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Quantum computing holds the promise of humanity’s mastery over the natural world, but only if we can build a real quantum computer. PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the first real, useful quantum computers, capable of delivering the world-changing applications that the technology has long promised. We know that means we will need to build a system with roughly 1 million qubits that supports fault tolerant error correction within a scalable architecture, and a data center footprint.

By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers can provide exponential performance increases over today’s most powerful supercomputers, offering the potential for extraordinary advances across a broad range of industries including climate, energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and many more.

PsiQuantum has determined the fastest path to delivering a useful quantum computer, years earlier than the rest of the industry. Our architecture is based on silicon photonics which gives us the ability to produce our components at Tier-1 semiconductor fabs such as GlobalFoundries where we leverage high-volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, the same processes that are already producing billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics applications. We also benefit from the quantum mechanics reality that photons don’t feel heat or electromagnetic interference, allowing us to take advantage of existing cryogenic cooling systems and industry standard fiber connectivity.

In 2024, PsiQuantum announced two government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first Quantum Data Centers and utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia and Chicago, Illinois. Both projects are backed by nations that understand quantum computing’s potential impact and the need to scale this technology to unlock that potential. And we won’t just be building the hardware, but also the fault tolerant quantum applications that will provide industry-transforming results.

Quantum computing is not just an evolution of the decades-old advancement in compute power. It provides the key to mastering our future, not merely discovering it. The potential is enormous, and we have the plan to make it real. Come join us.

There’s much more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Responsibilities:

  • Delivers novel photonic designs for the development of ultra-low loss fiber-to-PIC couplers.
  • Interacts with architecture, process, and packaging teams and external vendors to iterate and drive designs toward meeting target specs and yield requirements.
  • Collect feedback from stakeholders and account for manufacturing constraints in photonic designs.
  • Coordinate with layout and process teams to tapeout designs.
  • Apply quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and proposes, develop and implements solutions for corrective action 

Experience/Qualifications:

  • MS + 5 years experience or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, or other related fields.
  • Knowledge of state-of-the-art fiber attach and packaging techniques.
  • Expertise with photonic design tools, such as Lumerical, Tidy3D, COMSOL, RSoft.
  • Experience with silicon photonics foundry tapeouts and PDK’s.
  • Proven team player with an ability to work effectively across departments, sites, time zones.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong analytical and detail oriented problem-solving skills.
  • Proven experience executing cross-department complex projects.
  • Ability to work independently with limited direction.
  • Demonstrated ability to juggle multiple priorities and deliver against a schedule. 

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

Note: PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to recruiting@psiquantum.com.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

Average salary estimate

$135000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$120000K
$150000K

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What You Should Know About Silicon Photonics Design Engineer, Psiquantum

Join PsiQuantum as a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer in the vibrant tech hub of Palo Alto, California! If you're passionate about quantum computing and want to be at the forefront of technological advancements, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. At PsiQuantum, we're on a mission to develop the first real, useful quantum computers, and we need exceptional talent to help us achieve that goal. In this exciting role, you'll be responsible for delivering cutting-edge photonic designs, particularly ultra-low loss fiber-to-PIC couplers. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with architecture, process, and packaging teams, as well as external vendors to hone designs to meet our demanding specifications and yield requirements. Your analytical skills will be crucial as you tackle complex technical problems, and you'll have the opportunity to drive innovations in an industry that promises extraordinary advancements across various fields. We're looking for someone with a strong educational background—ideally an MS with five years of experience or a PhD—in Electrical Engineering or related fields, who has hands-on experience with state-of-the-art fiber attach techniques and photonic design tools like Lumerical and COMSOL. Join us at PsiQuantum and be part of a revolutionary journey that combines innovation with real-world impact. Together, we can harness the power of quantum physics to make a significant difference across industries and help build a better future for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Silicon Photonics Design Engineer Role at Psiquantum
What are the responsibilities of a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer at PsiQuantum?

As a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer at PsiQuantum, your primary responsibilities will include delivering innovative photonic designs, specifically for ultra-low loss fiber-to-PIC couplers. You will collaborate with various teams, including architecture, process, and packaging departments, as well as external vendors. This means iterating on designs to align with target specifications and yield requirements, gathering feedback from stakeholders, and addressing manufacturing constraints. Additionally, you'll coordinate with layout and process teams to ensure timely tapeout of designs while applying quantitative analysis to troubleshoot complex technical problems.

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What qualifications are required to apply for the Silicon Photonics Design Engineer position at PsiQuantum?

To be considered for the Silicon Photonics Design Engineer position at PsiQuantum, candidates should hold a Master's degree with at least five years of experience or a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related fields. Candidates must also possess expertise in photonic design tools, familiarity with silicon photonics foundry tapeouts, and a solid understanding of fiber attach packaging techniques. Strong analytical abilities and effective communication skills are essential, as well as proven experience executing complex projects collaboratively.

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What tools and skills are essential for the Silicon Photonics Design Engineer role at PsiQuantum?

Essential tools for a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer at PsiQuantum include photonic design software such as Lumerical, Tidy3D, COMSOL, and RSoft. Candidates should possess deep knowledge of fiber attach and packaging techniques, along with experience in silicon photonics foundries and process design kits (PDKs). A successful engineer in this role is expected to have strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, allowing for effective collaboration across departments and successful project management.

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How does the Silicon Photonics Design Engineer contribute to PsiQuantum's mission?

The Silicon Photonics Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in advancing PsiQuantum's mission to develop the world's first practical quantum computers. By delivering innovative photonic designs and collaborating with cross-functional teams, you will help create the components necessary for fault-tolerant quantum computing. Your contributions will directly impact the scalability and performance of our quantum computing systems, making advancements in industries such as healthcare, energy, and finance possible.

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What is the work environment like for a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer at PsiQuantum?

The work environment for a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer at PsiQuantum is dynamic, innovative, and highly collaborative. You will be working with some of the leading minds in the field while engaging in stimulating projects that have the potential to reshape the future of technology. The culture promotes teamwork, continuous learning, and an open exchange of ideas, allowing you to contribute to exciting advancements in quantum computing while growing your own skills and expertise.

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Common Interview Questions for Silicon Photonics Design Engineer
What experience do you have with photonic design tools?

In responding to this question, highlight your experience with specific photonic design tools such as Lumerical, Tidy3D, COMSOL, and RSoft. Discuss any projects where you employed these tools to create photonic devices and emphasize the outcomes of those projects. Highlighting your ability to use these tools effectively demonstrates your technical expertise and readiness for the role.

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Can you describe a challenging project you worked on in the past?

When answering this question, select a project that presents significant challenges, particularly in photonics or quantum computing. Discuss the specific challenges you faced, how you approached problem-solving, and ultimately the successful outcomes. The goal is to showcase your analytical skills and ability to work under pressure while emphasizing teamwork and collaboration.

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How do you ensure your designs meet manufacturing constraints?

In your answer, discuss the approach you take to balance innovative design with practical manufacturing capabilities. Mention the importance of collaborating with process and packaging teams early in the design phase to gather insights and feedback. Being proactive in addressing potential constraints ensures your designs are not only innovative but also feasible for production.

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What strategies do you use for effective cross-department collaboration?

When answering this question, emphasize the importance of communication and active listening. Explain that you schedule regular check-ins with team members from different departments, establish clear goals, and utilize project management tools to maintain transparency. This encourages a collaborative environment where everyone's input is valued, leading to better project outcomes.

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Describe your experience with silicon photonics foundry tapeouts.

In your response, elaborate on your familiarity with the tapeout processes, including any specific foundries you've worked with. Discuss how you successfully navigated these processes, focusing on any lessons learned or improvements made. This response highlights your practical knowledge and experience, which is crucial for the role.

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How do you approach problem-solving in your designs?

Explain that your approach to problem-solving is systematic and analytical. You gather data, perform quantitative analyses, and seek feedback from peers to better understand the issues at hand. Be sure to provide examples of when this approach led to successful solutions in your previous work, showcasing both your technical and teamwork skills.

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What do you believe is the most exciting aspect of working in silicon photonics?

Discuss the groundbreaking potential silicon photonics has in advancing quantum computing and other industries. Your answer should reflect your genuine enthusiasm for the field and how you envision contributing to its evolution. This demonstrates your passion for the job and aligns with PsiQuantum's mission to leverage cutting-edge technology for real-world applications.

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How do you manage multiple priorities in your projects?

In your response, share specific strategies for prioritization, such as setting clear deadlines, using project management tools, and regular communication with supervisors and team members. Providing a real-life scenario where you successfully managed several competing priorities will show your capability in delivering results under pressure.

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What role does feedback play in your design process?

Highlight that feedback is vital to your design process, allowing for iterative improvements. Discuss how you actively seek input from stakeholders and incorporate it into your designs, which not only enhances the final product but also fosters collaboration and innovative thinking. This illustrates your adaptability and commitment to quality.

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Why do you want to work at PsiQuantum?

When answering this question, express your admiration for PsiQuantum's mission to revolutionize the field of quantum computing. Discuss specific projects or values of the company that resonate with you. This response demonstrates your alignment with the company's goals and your motivation to contribute to their success.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 29, 2025

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