Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Step into the cutting-edge world of silicon photonics with Ciena. As a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer, you will be part of a team pushing the boundaries of optical technologies, developing innovative solutions for next-generation high-speed optical networks. You will leverage your expertise to design, simulate, and validate photonic devices, focusing on performance, reliability, and manufacturability for modulator devices.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Design & Optimization: Design and optimize photonic integrated circuits (PICs), specifically high-speed modulators.
• Simulation: Conduct advanced simulations of modulator devices using specialized software tools to predict performance and reliability.
• Data Analysis: Analyze and interpret experimental results, correlating hardware data with theoretical models.
• Collaboration: Partner with wafer fabrication vendors to ensure design feasibility and cross-functional teams to integrate designs into broader systems.
• Testing: Develop and implement DC and RF test plans for both active and passive photonic devices.
• Documentation: Document design decisions and communicate technical advancements to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Photonics, Optics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering; OR an M.Sc. in a related field with 5+ years of direct industry experience in silicon photonics.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in photonic device design and hardware validation.
• Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design, covering both active and passive components.
• Tool Proficiency: Professional experience using simulation tools for optical, optoelectronic, or RF applications (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, or Ansys).
• Testing Skills: Practical experience with DC and RF test methods for photonic component characterization.
• Fabrication: Hands-on experience with semiconductor fabrication processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Specialized Design: Experience specifically focused on the design and optimization of high-speed silicon modulators.
• Advanced Materials: Knowledge of III-V material systems, TFLN, or BTO and their specific applications in photonics.
• Yield Optimization: Experience with statistical analysis and data interpretation for manufacturing yield improvement.
• Automation: Strong programming skills in Python for simulation automation and large-scale data analysis.
• Partnership: Ability to collaborate with academic and industry R&D partners on emerging photonic technologies.

Pay Range: The salary range for this position if hired in New Jersey is $133,100 - $212,500 USD.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.  Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.