Senior Photonics PDK Design Automation Engineer (Python)

Location: Boston, MA or Mountain View, CA, United States; flexible hybrid workplace model.

Salary: $165,000–$200,000 USD annually, plus equity and other rewards.

Company

hirify.global develops photonic infrastructure for AI and high-performance computing data centers, including 3D-stacked photonics engines.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain Python-based photonic PDK component libraries, keeping physical layouts, logical netlists, and behavioral models synchronized.
• Build custom photonic LVS decks for multiple foundry technologies and troubleshoot mismatches in complex analog and photonic circuits.
• Design and test device and parameter extraction for photonic devices.
• Collaborate with design, layout, modeling, and infrastructure engineers to deliver tape-outs.
• Implement regression testing and CI pipelines to protect legacy designs and connectivity logic.
• Contribute to PDK, DRC, and design automation projects.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Photonics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience developing LVS decks with Siemens Calibre, Cadence Pegasus, and/or Synopsys IC Validator.
• Experience with photonics layout, integrated photonic and analog devices, parasitics, and foundry processes including SOI, etching, implants, and metal stacks.
• Python-based layout experience, object-oriented programming, and scientific libraries such as NumPy and SciPy.
• Experience with Python, SVRF, Tcl, Bash, and SKILL scripting, plus Linux, Git, and software engineering practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills for complex problems without obvious solutions.

Nice to have

• Experience with gdstk, GDSFactory, or KLayout.
• Experience with pytest, CI/CD workflows, DRC deck and rule development, and foundry-provided PDKs.
• Experience with Cadence Virtuoso and large-scale physical layout.
• Strong communication and project execution skills.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible hybrid workplace model.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings matching, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Vacation, sick leave, public holidays, and paid family leave.
• Training and development, commuter benefits, and equity grants for full-time employees.
• Ability to comply with federally mandated U.S. export control requirements.