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Principal Engineer High-Speed microLED Development

Job DescriptionJob Description

About the company

Inlighten Technologies is a Silicon Valley startup developing next microLED technologies for high-performance computing and augmented reality (AR) glasses. Our mission is to push the limits of microLED performance and manufacturing, enabling optical interconnect solutions that break the memory-wall bottleneck in AI data centers. Join us to help create the optical communication engines that will power the future of scalable AI infrastructure.

About the Role

As a Leading Developer for High-Speed microLED Arrays, you will bridge the gap between advanced III-V optoelectronic chip fabrication and high-bandwidth optical interconnect applications. You will lead the design, optimization, and high-frequency characterization of microLED arrays targeted at multi-terabit optical interconnects. This is a high-impact role requiring a rare combination of hands-on expertise in III-V semiconductor physics (InGaN/GaAs) and a deep understanding of high-speed optical transmitter architectures (PAM-4/NRZ, small-signal bandwidth, and impedance matching). You will drive the technology from initial device physics concept to high-volume integration with CMOS backplanes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead High-Speed microLED Design: Drive the architecture, layout, and process integration of high-density microLED arrays optimized for GHz-range modulation bandwidths.
  • Optimize Epitaxy & Device Physics: Partner with MOCVD and process engineering to engineer epitaxial stacks and chip designs for highest current density and to minimize carrier lifetime and RC parasitics.
  • Drive High-Frequency Characterization: Collaborate with the metrology team to establish electro-optical test capabilities for RF testing, including S-parameter measurements, eye-diagram analysis, and Bit Error Rate (BER) characterization.
  • Execute CMOS/Driver Co-Design: Collaborate with high-speed analog/mixed-signal IC designers to co-optimize the electrical interface, ensuring impedance matching between the microLED array and CMOS driver backplanes.
  • Build Data-Driven Performance Modeling: Utilize carrier transport and optical simulation tools to model high-injection dynamics, self-heating, and modulation response under high-speed operation.
  • Manage IP and Technology Roadmap: Identify and secure intellectual property for high-speed microLED structures, driving the company's technical edge in the AI hardware ecosystem.

 

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on optoelectronics
  • Deep expertise in III-V semiconductor optoelectronics (InGaN, InGaAsP, or InGaAlP) spanning epitaxy fundamentals, chip design, and front-end processing
  • Proven track record in high-speed datacom/telecom technology, specifically with direct-modulation transmitters (e.g., VCSELs, high-speed LEDs, or EMLs)
  • Experience with advanced packaging and integration techniques

Technical Skills:

  • Hands-on mastery of high-frequency RF testing techniques and equipment (Network Analyzers, BERTs, High-Speed Oscilloscopes)
  • Solid understanding of optical link budgets, chromatic dispersion, and optical coupling mechanics into multi-mode or single-mode fibers/waveguides
  • Working knowledge of data analysis and statistical processing tools (Python, MATLAB, JMP).
  • Experience with semiconductor device simulation tools (e.g., Silvaco, Sentaurus, COMSOL) tuned for dynamic AC/RF analysis is a plus

Soft Skills:

  • Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence across functions, align global teams, and operate effectively in an international environment.
  • Comfortable working in a start-up environment

 

What we offer

  • Base salary range: $220k-$290k, based on experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • A varied role with real responsibility and visibility.
  • Direct collaboration, quick decisions, and the joy of building something great together.
  • A dynamic, informal startup culture.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity

  • Inlighten Technologies is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to and . We promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to , color, , , , , , , veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.