Photonic Layout Engineer

We are looking for a Photonic Layout Engineer to join our QPU Design team at Oxford Ionics/IonQ. In this role, you will be responsible for the layout of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) that form a central part of our Quantum Processor Units (QPUs), the novel technology that sits at the heart of our quantum computers and contributes to the team’s mission of advancing the design of these high-performance chips. You will work closely with scientists, photonic design engineers and fabrication engineers to bring new designs for ion trapping chips into production.

Responsibilities

Integrating photonic components into complex multi-layer chips; Arranging and routing photonic components on the chip, in coordination with metal track and CMOS routing; Producing reticle-size photonic layout files using Python scripts as part of tape-out of the full chip; Collaborating with scientists to discuss their requirements; Interfacing with photonic designers, test engineers, packaging engineers and fabrication engineers to define design rules and shape component design; Layout verification through DRC and LVS; Contributing to custom layout Process Design Kits (PDKs) that are specific to IonQ and the foundry; Documenting the layout process and the final tape-out mask files.

Requirements

Significant experience in the design and layout of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs); Proficiency in Photonic Integrated Circuit layouts; Familiarity with the principles of photonic devices, such as waveguides, beamsplitters, grating couplers or similar, including design, test and fabrication; At least 2 years of experience working with Python software packages, specifically for photonic mask layout, such as Luceda IPKISS, GDSFactory or Klayout; A degree in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent industry experience; Strong collaboration and communication skills, and the ability to work independently and prioritise tasks in a time-sensitive environment.

Nice to have

Experience in generating layout files for photonic devices or complex semiconductor devices, particularly with custom elements; Knowledge of manufacturing processes and techniques in these two fields; Background in commercial simulation, verification and layout environments such as Synopsys, Cadence or Ansys; Strong programming and software skills

Benefits

Opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders; Competitive salary with IonQ stock options; Annual performance bonus; Generous annual leave; Flexible hybrid working; Private medical and dental insurance for you and your family; Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans; Matching 401(k); Unlimited PTO and paid holidays; Parental/adoption leave; Legal insurance; Home technology stipend