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Founding Process Engineer, Semiconductor Lasers

TopoLight
Santa Barbara, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 7/6/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/28/2026

Overview

TopoLight is a venture-backed deep tech startup commercializing novel InP-based high-power photonic crystal lasers (PCSELs). We’re looking for our first process engineer who will own the full PCSEL fabrication process, develop new device flows that push yield and performance, and lead the fab behind our next generation of semiconductor lasers.


Responsibilities

  • Drive end-to-end PCSEL device fabrication.
  • Implement high-yield dielectric, metal, and direct wafer bonding flows.
  • Lead photolithography process development for photonic crystal patterning.
  • Develop and tune dry and wet etch processes for III-V optical material stacks.
  • Establish process control and statistical monitoring for fabrication repeatability.
  • Debug and iterate processes quickly in a fast-moving environment.


Qualifications

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in EE, Materials, Physics, or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • Demonstrated III-V photonic device fabrication proficiency.
  • Strong with photolithography, wet/dry etch, thin film deposition, wafer bonding, and metrology (AFM/SEM/TEM/etc.).
  • Comfortable owning ambiguous problems in a startup environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication, with a collaborative working style.
  • Bonus: design and simulation of III-V epitaxial structures and semiconductor lasers.


Compensation

As a founding engineer, you will receive a significant stake of equity in TopoLight. Salary will range from $110k - $150k, plus a generous stock option package.

Salary : $110,000 - $150,000

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