Layout & Design Engineer SNSPDs (Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors)

About Xanadu:
Xanadus mission is to build quantum computers that are useful and available to people everywhere.

At Xanadu we are learners innovators researchers collaborators and problem solvers. We are creating something that has never been built before. Few people in their life will be able to be a part of something like this where if we are successful the technologies we develop will solve some of the worlds most challenging problems and literally change the world. And that is something to be excited about!

Your role and responsibilities:
The successful candidate will join the Low Temperature Devices team to develop cutting-edge superconducting single-photon detector (SNSPD) components which are critical to Xanadus fault-tolerant this role you will help develop our internal PDK with a focus on complex multiplexed multi-pixel detector arrays. You will also lead mask design for fabrication process optimization bridging the gap between simulation and experiment by designing advanced test structures and production tape-outs. This position offers unique design experience with state-of-the-art foundry processes through Xanadus 300mm fabrication partners and rapid 100mm in-house development.

• Capture device layout requirements through close collaboration with the teams low temperature device scientists.
• Design and execute GDS mask layouts for test structures and production tape-outs ensuring high-quality fabrication outputs.
• Perform device-level simulations and develop automated pipelines to integrate design environments with simulation tools.
• Regularly interact with the Xanadu Fabrication Engineering team to align design strategies with fabrication capabilities and constraints.
• Other simulation or computational projects that aligns with the hires expertise
• Drive improvements in key SNSPD performance metrics through layout optimization and innovative design strategies.

Required qualifications and experience:

• MSc or PhD in Engineering Science or related field with 2 years of experience in an industrial setting
• Expert-level experience with scripted photonic mask design/layout with one or more of the following tools: gdsfactory ipkiss3 Virtuoso OptoDesigner or similar tools.
• Expert-level knowledge and experience in performing physical verification with homemade and/or foundry-provided codes including DRC (design rule check) and LVS (layout versus schematic) to ensure manufacturing compliance and netlist integrity
• Expert-level experience with generating layout in the format of GDSII/OAS in MPW and dedicated full mask sets
• Experience working in a collaborative team-based development environment preferably using version control systems such as Git
• Experience collaborating with internal teams and external partners across process integration packaging and fabrication
• Experience using Python for component design simulation layout and data analysis
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced cross-disciplinary environment
• Strong attention to detail and a rigorous data-driven approach to problem solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred qualifications and experience:

• Background in developing superconducting single photon detectors circuits and devices.

• Experience designing layouts for superconducting devices (e.g. SNSPDs) and a strong understanding of their operational principles.
• Expertise in layout techniques that account for fabrication effects such as lithographic rounding OPC/bias correction and material non-uniformity to optimize component performance.
• Simulation experience for device-level modeling (e.g. COMSOL)

This is for a new position. Your base salary will be determined based on your location experience and internal benchmarks. You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Our values are important. They are fundamental and lay the foundation for culture at Xanadu. Learn more about our values here.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive safe and equitable culture and fostering an environment where our employees feel included valued and heard. We are committed to meeting the needs of all individuals and support a barrier-free workplace. Should you require accommodations at any point during the recruitment process please contact Recruiting at .

Please be advised that we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the screening and assessment of applicants for this position. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed please contact us.