Layout and Automation Design Engineer

About the role

LIGENTEC’s Photonic Design Team is seeking a dedicated Layout and Automation Design Engineer to ensure robust realization and efficient scaling of Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) designs. The role combines hands‑on photonic layout work with the development of automation tools to maintain a high‑quality layout ecosystem.

Key responsibilities

• Execute layout of passive and active photonic components and full circuits, adhering to design rules and best practices.
• Develop and maintain the internal layout component library and automation scripts to speed up the design‑to‑layout flow.
• Interface with Process and Yield Engineering teams to collect manufacturing requirements and design test structures.
• Perform design rule checks (DRC) and layout‑vs‑schematic (LVS) checks, providing feedback on manufacturability.
• Support the characterization team with data extraction and link experimental results to layout features.

Required profile

• MSc or PhD in photonics or a related field.
• Minimum 3 + years of hands‑on experience in integrated optics layout or automation programming.
• Expert competence with layout tools such as GDSfactory or IPKISS and deep understanding of layout best practices.
• Proficiency in Python programming and familiarity with version control systems like Git.
• Understanding of PIC manufacturing, design‑for‑testability and design‑for‑manufacturability.

Required skills

• Python
• Git
• GDSfactory
• IPKISS

What we offer

• Direct impact on global expansion by turning cutting‑edge photonics R&D into business success.
• Work in an agile, international team of over 30 nationalities with short decision paths.
• Environment that supports work‑life harmony and professional development.