Company: Zero Point Motion
Location: Bristol
Posted: March 20th, 2026
At Zero Point Motion, we build photonic integrated circuits that are not just impressive - but production-ready at scale.
This role exists to design, simulate, tape-out, and mature PICs (and associated lasers and photodetectors), closing the loop between theory, simulation, and large-scale experimental data.
This is not a “paper PIC” role.
It is about making photonics inevitable in real products.
As a Photonics Design & Simulation Engineer, you own PIC design from first principles through tape-out and data-driven refinement.
You will work in a highly automated test environment where data is abundant.
Your job is to:
design quickly
simulate intelligently
and update models ruthlessly based on measurement
Iteration speed and convergence matter more than elegant one-off designs.
Design PIC components and circuits from scratch
Perform layout using KLayout (scripted layout strongly preferred)
Run and interpret DRC (foundry specifics can be taught)
Simulate PICs using tools such as:
Lumerical MODE / FDTD / INTERCONNECT
COMSOL Wave Optics
Zemax or equivalent is a bonus
Correlate simulation results with wafer-scale and lot-scale measurements
Update models based on real data, not idealised assumptions
Use justified correction ("fudge") factors where appropriate
Balance simulation speed versus accuracy deliberately
Treat simulation as a hypothesis generator, not truth
Analyse large experimental datasets with strong statistical discipline.
Write substantial Python for:
analysis
automation
model validation
reporting
Maintain high standards for design and data versioning, traceability, and reproducibility
Design for yield, fabrication tolerance, and scalability
Work closely with process, metrology, and foundry teams
Contribute to faster, more predictable tape-outs
You must have:
Deep experience in PIC design and simulation
Completed multiple PIC tape-outs (preferably at a known foundry)
Personally closed the loop between simulation and measurement
Excellent Python coding and data analysis skills
Strong grasp of statistics and variation across wafers and lots
Experience with lasers and photodetectors is strongly preferred.
This role is for:
Designers who move fast and iterate
Engineers frustrated by slow, fragile PIC workflows
People who believe photonics hasn’t scaled due to execution, not physics
Engineers with high standards and attention to detail
Builders focused on outcomes, not speculative designs
This is not:
a theory-only or research-only role
a “hero device” design position
a simulation-first, measurement-second job
a place for spreadsheet- or GUI-only workflows
After 6–12 months:
PIC designs converge faster with fewer surprises
Simulation models are trusted because they reflect reality
Components are characterised across wafers and across lots
Designs become measurably more linear, tolerant, and scalable
Tape-outs are faster and more predictable
The organisation trusts photonics data when making decisions
Compensation: Our framework is built on fairness and transparency, with regular reviews to reflect growth and performance.
Benefits: Share options, pension, and private medical insurance.
Culture: A deep-tech rocketship backed by leading investors. We’re building breakthrough technology with real commercial impact. Pace is high. Standards are higher.
Zero Point Motion is determined to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are committed to providing a work environment where there’s a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, and everyone is treated with respect. Equity, diversity and inclusion are central to our mission,and we strongly encourage candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.
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