Silicon Photonics Switch Architect

Silicon Photonics Switch Architect

About the Role

We are seeking a visionary Silicon Photonics Switch Architect to lead the definition, design, and optimization of our next-generation optical switching platforms. You will bridge the gap between optical physics, ASIC/CMOS electronics, and advanced packaging to deliver state-of-the-art optical interconnects. You will own the holistic architectural vision from concept through to high-volume

manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Architecture Definition: Lead the system and chip-level architecture for high-capacity Silicon Photonics (SiPh) switch fabrics, ensuring optimized performance, latency, and energy efficiency (pJ/bit).

Link Budgeting & Co-Design: Develop end-to-end optical link budgets. Drive the joint optoelectronic co-design of photonic devices (modulators, photodetectors, ring resonators) alongside electronic drivers (TIA, DSP).

System Integration: Spearhead the floorplanning and integration of SiPh chips with scaled CMOS electronics using advanced 2.5D/3D packaging and hybrid bonding.

Design & Simulation: Conduct rigorous trade-off analyses balancing performance, thermal management, cost, and manufacturability.

Design for Test (DFT): Define optical test methodologies and collaborate with test and reliability teams to ensure high yield and product robustness.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as the technical anchor point, collaborating closely with hardware, RF design, packaging, and foundry engineering teams.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education:

Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical sciences, or a related quantitative field.

Experience:

5+ years of industry experience in integrated photonics, with a strong focus on high-speed optical communications or photonic switching.

Technical Proficiencies:

o Proficiency in photonic simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, Ansys).

o Familiarity with layout and physical verification tools (e.g., gdsfactory, IPKISS, Calibre).

o Scripting and automation skills (Python or C/C++).

Domain Knowledge:

Solid grasp of electromagnetic theory, RF/high- frequency design, optical packaging, and fiber-to-chip coupling techniques.

Soft Skills:

Excellent technical leadership and communication skills, with a proven track record of bringing complex optical systems to life.