R&D Engineer for Photonic Integrated Systems

TOPTICA Photonics SE is an internationally leading, mid-sized high-tech manufacturer of laser systems for science, biotechnology, and metrology, with more than 600 employees worldwide. High motivation and personal responsibility in the service of our customers shape the corporate philosophy of this privately managed "hidden champion," which is embraced and actively lived by our employees with great commitment. Our customers include renowned industrial companies as well as numerous Nobel Prize winners.Are you interested in shaping innovative laser systems at the intersection of photonics, integrated optics, and quantum technologies? In the Highly Coherent Diode Lasers Research group, you will develop photonic integrated systems - from simulation and design through characterization to demonstrators. You will work closely with internal specialist teams, external PIC fabs, and international partners.

R&D Engineer for Photonic Integrated Systems

What can you expect in this role?

• Simulation, design, and layout of photonic integrated components and PICs
• Supporting fabrication at external PIC fabs and ensuring chip quality
• Characterization of PICs as well as assembly and testing of optical demonstrators
• Development of proof-of-concepts for research, grant-funded, and product development projects
• Technical collaboration with teams in electronics, software, mechanical engineering, semiconductor technology, and optical integration, as well as with external partners and international colleagues
• Contributing to the identification of applications and technical solution approaches

Must-haves: What you'll need for this role?

• Degree in physics, photonics, optics, electrical engineering, or a comparable field
• Practical experience in PIC design and with relevant simulation/layout tools, such as Lumerical, Tidy3D, or gdsfactory
• Hands-on experience with the optical and electrical characterization of PICs
• Experience working in an optics laboratory and with measurement systems for optics and lasers
• Experience collaborating with PIC fabs
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, combined with a professional and confident manner

What would be a plus in this role?

• Experience with narrow-linewidth lasers, particularly externally fed-back diode lasers
• Knowledge of quantum technologies and metrology
• Understanding of the PIC ecosystem, including packaging and other associated components
• Experience developing demonstrators and proof-of-concepts
• Experience working with customers, research partners, or external service providers

It's a plus if you've heard of the following terms:

• Linewidth and frequency-noise measurements
• Frequency stabilization and locking techniques (e.g., PDH)
• 3D printing and rapid prototyping
• Micromounting and joining/bonding techniques

What do we offer:

• A vibrant community with open exchange, shared laughter - whether at table tennis, billiards, or over an espresso from our portafilter machine ;) - in our "Kulinarium" and epic company events (summer party, company outing, lunch lottery, Christmas party)
• An authentic first-name culture and short decision-making paths
• Individual onboarding for new TOPTICAns, supported by a personal mentor
• Tailored professional development - diverse learning opportunities for every need
• Support in all life situations: Employee Assistance Program for employees and their families
• Energy boosts throughout the day in the form of free soft drinks, coffee/tea, fresh fruit, and ice cream
• Generous vacation days: 30 days plus additional special holidays (e.g., Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve)
• Financial extras such as Christmas bonus, employee bonus, and company pension scheme
• Proud awards such as "Bavaria's Best 50" and "Bicycle-Friendly Employer"

Interested? We're excited!
Join our team! We look forward to receiving your online application as R&D Engineer for Photonic Integrated Systems. We aim to keep our application process secure, fast, and simple.Please understand that, in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation, we can only accept online applications and will delete any applications submitted by email or mail.