Product Development jobs in United Kingdom

We are partnering with a pioneering quantum computing company to recruit a skilled Photonic Engineer. This role offers the opportunity to design and build a new photonic testing setup from the ground up, working on state-of-the-art integrated photonic technologies. You will play a key part in testing, characterising, and refining photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to support the company’s cutting‑edge research and product development.

• Design, develop, and commission a photonic device and PIC testing environment, from concept to operational readiness.
• Perform device and PIC testing and characterisation at both wafer‑level and chip‑level.
• Conduct FDTD simulations using tools such as Lumerical or MEEP to model and optimise photonic components.
• Create and refine PIC layouts using KLayout or similar software.
• Analyse test data, identify performance issues, and propose engineering solutions.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including R&D and systems engineers, to align design and testing activities with project goals.
• Document processes, results, and best practices to support repeatable and scalable workflows.

• 2–3+ years of industry experience in silicon photonics or integrated photonics.
• Strong hands‑on experience in PIC/device testing and characterisation, including the use of optical test and measurement equipment (e.g., OSAs, tunable lasers, polarisation controllers, wafer probers).
• Proficiency with FDTD simulation tools (Lumerical, MEEP, or similar).
• Experience with PIC layout design tools, ideally KLayout.
• Familiarity with optical alignment, coupling techniques, and automation (Python, LabVIEW, or similar).
• Proven ability to work effectively in a small, collaborative, and fast‑paced environment.

• Experience in setting up new optical or photonic test laboratories.
• Knowledge of PDK‑based PIC design workflows.
• Exposure to quantum photonics or other emerging photonic technologies.
• Advanced degree (MSc, PhD) in Photonics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

• Be part of a small, expert engineering team shaping the future of quantum computing technology.
• Work with advanced integrated photonics and test systems on a daily basis.
• Opportunity to have a direct and visible impact on laboratory capability and product development.
• Competitive salary, share options, and full relocation/visa support.

Following your application Chris Green, a specialist recruiter will discuss the opportunity with you in detail. Chris will be more than happy to answer any questions relating to the industry and the potential for your career growth. The conversation can also progress further to discussing other opportunities, which are also available right now or will be imminently becoming available.

This position has been highly popular, and is likely that it will close shortly. We recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Please click 'apply' or contact Chris Green for any further information.

cgreen@barringtonjames.com