The future of AI computing is light, not electrons.
At Q.ANT, we are building photonic processing systems that compute with light - delivering a scalable, energy-efficient alternative to transistor based architectures for next-generation AI and high-performance computing.
As Senior Integrated Photonics Packaging Engineer (m/f/d) in our PIC OPS team, you will drive the transition of Q.ANT’s photonic computing technology from R&D prototypes to miniaturized, high-performance photonic modules. Focusing on RF and electro-optical packaging, you will define, develop, and verify high-frequency packaging concepts that unite PICs, light sources, photodetectors, and analog circuitry. By managing global suppliers and innovating beyond existing design rules, you will create proprietary packaging architectures that form a core competitive differentiator for our technology.
Your Impact & Responsibilities
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Define and own high-density electro-optical and RF packaging solutions, ensuring superior Signal Integrity (SI) and Power Integrity (PI)
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Lead supplier - driven R&D packaging projects from technical specification and contract negotiation through to final system integration and validation
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Perform electromagnetic modeling, co-simulation of package structures, and implementation of transmission line theory and EMC shielding techniques
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Drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and PCB/package layouting using advanced packaging materials and substrate technologies (HTCC, LTCC, HDI, Build-up)
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Execute thermal management strategies for high-power photonic and
high-frequency devices
Establish quality assurance and verification protocols to achieve- 95%
first-pass qualification on supplier-delivered modules -
Implement at least one new packaging material, process, or high-frequency architecture annually to build and protect proprietary Q.ANT IP
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Collaborate closely with internal R&D, systems, manufacturing, and test teams to align RF packaging solutions with overall system architecture
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M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Optoelectronics, Physics, or a related field; equivalent ndustry experience also considered
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5+ years of hands-on experience in RF packaging, optoelectronic integration, or high-density interconnect technologies
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Proven track record of managing supplier-led R&D projects from requirement definition through to integration and validation
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Deep expertise in RF signal/power integrity, electromagnetic simulation tools, S-parameter measurements, and EMC shielding
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Solid background in semiconductor backend integration, thermal management, and advanced packaging substrates (HTCC, LTCC, HDI)
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Familiarity with CAD tools for electronic packaging, statistical process control (SPC), and industry standards (e.g., Telcordia, JEDEC)
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Solution-oriented mindset with high attention to detail, proactive ownership, strong self-leadership, and cross-functional communication skills
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Fluent in English; knowledge of German or another European language is a plus
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Work on the leading edge: Shape deep-tech evolution by developing novel high frequency packaging architectures that push the physical boundaries of AI computing.
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Make impact at scale: Transition photonics computing from prototypes to scalable, high-yield mass production, directly accelerating our time-to-market.
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Broad decision-making authority: Enjoy wide autonomy to challenge existing design rules, define technical strategies, select suppliers, and propose new packaging technologies.
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Fast-track your growth: Solve complex high-frequency and electro-optical challenges with few industry precedents—every solution you build contributes to industry-defining IP.
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World-class team: Collaborate alongside a passionate, international team of experts in photonics, RF design, processor architecture, and AI systems.
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Direct access to leadership: Work directly with the Head of PIC, company founders, and an advisory board that has shaped the semiconductor industry.
Q.ANT is a deep-tech scale-up developing photonic processing solutions that compute natively with light and deliver a scalable alternative to transistor-based systems. The analog co-processors are optimised for complex computations and enable energy-efficient performance for next-generation AI and HPC applications. In collaboration with the Institute for Microelectronics Stuttgart IMS CHIPS, Q.ANT operates its own pilot line for photonic chips, based on the material system Thin-Film Lithium Niobate TFLN. Q.ANT was founded by Michael Förtsch in 2018 and is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.
