Location: Chicago, IL (Option for Hybrid, Remote work)

Company: memQ

Position Overview

At memQ, we are building extensible quantum networks that will unlock the real power of quantum computing! Recognized as the leaders in extending and connecting quantum systems at scale, we sit at the dynamic intersection of quantum physics, materials science, photonics, and information systems. Powered by a world-class, diverse team of experts, we foster a high-energy, collaborative environment where our groundbreaking photonic integrated circuits and software deliver the essential scalability solutions quantum systems need today.

We are moving fast with an ambitious hardware portfolio, which includes our quantum network interface controllers (QNIC), quantum memory modules (QMM), quantum control systems (QCS), and our extensible distributed quantum compiler software (xDQC) – and are actively deploying these with industry-leading partners and customers. To drive this next chapter of growth, We are seeking a highly motivated Integrated Photonic Design Engineer to lead the design, simulation, and validation of our next-generation photonic integrated circuits (PICs). In this role, you will bridge the gap between quantum physics and scalable semiconductor manufacturing. You will design the optical interfaces that control and read out different qubit modalities, working closely with our materials, quantum engineering, and test/measurement teams to push the boundaries of what is possible in quantum networking.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Simulation: Lead the design and simulation of passive and active nanophotonic devices (e.g., high-Q photonic crystal cavities, waveguides, couplers, modulators) using tools such as Ansys Lumerical, Tidy3D, or similar FDTD/FEM solvers

• Foundry Tape-out: Manage the full lifecycle of PIC tape-outs, including layout (GDSII), design rule checking (DRC), and collaboration with commercial foundry partners (e.g., AIM Photonics) to ensure successful fabrication

• System Integration: Work with the quantum hardware team to integrate photonic circuits with multiple optically active qubit platforms, ensuring optimal light-matter interaction and efficient qubit control/readout

• Characterization: Collaborate with experimentalists to characterize fabricated devices in our optical labs, analyzing performance data to validate designs and drive iterative improvements

• Tooling & Automation: Develop and maintain internal software tools (Python) for automated design generation, simulation sweeps, and data analysis

Required Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field

• Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience in the design, simulation, and layout of active photonic integrated circuits (PICs)

• Technical Skills: Proficiency with electromagnetic simulation software (Lumerical FDTD/MODE, COMSOL, Tidy3D, or similar).

• Experience with layout tools (KLayout, Cadence, GDSFactory or similar) and scripting for P-cells

• Strong programming skills in Python for data analysis and design automation.

• Knowledge: Solid understanding of waveguide optics, modulator design, nonlinear optics, and limitations/behavior of photonic material platforms

Bonus Points

• Experience with quantum photonic devices or solid-state qubits (NV centers, rare-earth ions, etc.).

• Previous experience coordinating multi-project wafer (MPW) or dedicated runs with commercial foundries.

• Experience with photonic design on thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) or silicon nitride (SiN) platforms

• Experience developing integrated photonic components at non-telecom (visible) wavelengths

• Background in cryogenic experiments or low-temperature photonics

• Solid understanding of cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED) and light-matter interaction

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives

• Equity options in a high-growth quantum tech company

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans

• Opportunities for professional development in one of the most innovative fields in technology

To Apply: Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your experience with PIC design and your interest in quantum technologies: hiring@memq.tech