Senior Photonics Integrated Circuit Design Engineer

RTX Corporation is seeking a Senior Photonics Integrated Circuit Design Engineer for our San Diego facility. This is a full-time, onsite position engineering cutting-edge photonic solutions for next-generation applications. You'll drive IC architecture and design from concept through production, requiring the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

About the Role

As a Senior Photonics Integrated Circuit Design Engineer at RTX Corporation in San Diego, San Diego County, you'll lead the design and development of integrated photonic circuits for advanced defense and aerospace systems. This role combines deep expertise in photonics device physics, semiconductor processing, and analog circuit design to create high-performance solutions that drive mission-critical applications. You'll own projects from initial concept through silicon validation, working at the intersection of optics, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.

What You'll Do

• Design and optimize photonic integrated circuits using commercial design tools and custom simulation frameworks
• Develop detailed specifications for photonic devices including waveguides, modulators, detectors, and passive components
• Conduct circuit-level analysis and layout of mixed-signal photonic systems targeting specific performance targets
• Collaborate with process engineers to translate design requirements into manufacturable silicon photonics or III-V processes
• Lead design verification activities including simulations, test planning, and silicon validation
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to IC design methodology improvements
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation and design reviews for stakeholder communication

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline; Master's preferred
• 7+ years of professional IC design experience, with demonstrated expertise in photonic or RF/analog circuit design
• Strong proficiency with industry-standard design tools (e.g., Cadence, Synopsys, or equivalents)
• Deep understanding of photonic device physics, silicon photonics, or integrated optics fundamentals
• Proven experience leading complex design projects to successful silicon validation
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship required

About RTX Corporation

RTX Corporation is a global aerospace and defense company headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, with operations spanning intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; advanced systems; and integrated defense solutions. Our San Diego location is home to innovation in emerging photonics and semiconductor technologies.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.