About the role
Description
Company Overview
Skorpios Technologies, Inc. are innovators in heterogeneous integration of silicon photonic technology and semiconductor development. The company is rapidly expanding the technical organization and seeking
Sr. Simulation Engineers
specializing in Optical and Photonics modeling. These roles are critical in developing the next generation of disruptive III-V and Silicon Photonics integrated products.
Job Purpose
The Sr. Simulation Engineer is responsible for high-fidelity modeling and simulation of complex photonic integrated circuits (PICs). You will lead the virtual prototyping of high-performance devices—including lasers, modulators, and passive optical components—ensuring designs are optimized for Skorpios’ unique technology platform. Operating with an
in-house foundry
, these roles serve as the essential bridge between theoretical physics and rapid hardware implementation.
Core Responsibilities
Active & Passive Device Modeling:
Design and simulate III-V components, including DFB/DBR Lasers, SOAs, EAM/MZM modulators, UTC photodiodes.
Multi-Physics & RF Simulation:
Lead complex modeling that couples optical, electrical, and thermal solvers (e.g., self-heating effects in laser diodes). Optimize RF performance for high-speed modulators and optical-electrical conversion efficiency.
In-House Foundry Collaboration:
Partner directly with the internal Fab and Device Designers to translate simulations into actionable layouts. Establish process design rules and perform DRC (Design Rule Check) and LVS (Layout Versus Schematic) to ensure tapeout accuracy.
Virtual DOE & Validation:
Execute virtual Design of Experiments (DOE) to predict device reliability and performance. Validate simulation outputs against internal lab characterization data to refine material parameters and "close the loop" on model accuracy.
Requirements
Technical Stack & Knowledge Domains
Simulation Mastery:
Expert-level proficiency in
Ansys Lumerical
(FDTD, MODE, DEVICE, INTERCONNECT),
Synopsys RSoft/OptSim
, and
Zemax/Speos
.
RF & Mathematical Tools:
Experience with
Keysight ADS, Ansys HFSS
, or
CST Microwave Studio
. Advanced proficiency in
Python or MATLAB
for automation and large-scale data analysis.
III-V & Semiconductor Physics:
Deep understanding of bandgap engineering, carrier dynamics, recombination mechanisms, and band structures.
Fabrication & Packaging:
Strong knowledge of how epitaxy growth, etching profiles, and metalization affect optical modes. Familiarity with fiber coupling and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO).
Competencies
Analytical Thinking:
Ability to synthesize large datasets and utilize statistical tools (e.g., JMP or Minitab) for performance reporting.
Communication:
Proven ability to present complex technical trade-offs to engineering teams, executive leadership, and customers.
Problem Solving:
Strong troubleshooting skills in resolving discrepancies between modeled and measured device performance.
Required Education and Experience
Education:
M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field with an emphasis on computational photonics.
Experience:
5-10 years of industrial experience in photonics simulation and design, with a proven track record of bringing products from concept through in-house manufacturing.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
Environment:
Temperature-controlled office/lab setting.
Physical:
Constantly viewing high-resolution monitors for prolonged periods (8+ hours) for detailed modeling.
Travel:
Anticipated travel is less than 5%.