Senior RF Designer

Senior Engineer – High-Frequency RF Design

Location: Karlsruhe (on-site)

Employment Type: Full-time

Start Date: Immediate or by agreement

Organisation

A rapidly growing deep-technology start-up is developing advanced solutions for high-speed data transmission in next-generation data centres and artificial intelligence computing infrastructure . The organisation focuses on integrating advanced materials with silicon photonic technologies to enable highly efficient optical signal modulation and ultra-fast data communication systems.

Role Overview

The Senior Engineer will lead the radio-frequency (RF) design and development of high-speed photonic integrated circuits (PICs) used in next-generation optical transceivers.

This role combines technical leadership, design engineering, and collaboration with internal teams and external partners . The successful candidate will contribute to the design, development, and validation of advanced electro-optic devices operating at extremely high data rates.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the RF design and development of high-speed electro-optic modulators integrated within photonic circuits.
• Contribute to the design, fabrication, and testing of advanced photonic integrated devices , supporting ultra-high-speed data transmission systems.
• Perform optical and RF simulation, modelling, and optimisation of high-frequency photonic components.
• Support the development of millimetre-wave interfaces, packaging solutions, and high-speed fan-out boards .
• Conduct device and circuit characterisation using advanced measurement and testing equipment.
• Collaborate with external technology partners and research collaborators to advance development activities.
• Contribute to technical strategy and innovation within a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
• Support the growth of a high-performing, cross-disciplinary engineering team .

Candidate Profile

The organisation is seeking a motivated and technically strong candidate with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• PhD or equivalent industry experience (or experienced MSc) in RF engineering, electrical engineering, photonics, physics, or a related discipline
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of millimetre-wave devices and high-frequency circuit design
• Experience with device fabrication, manufacturing processes, and high-frequency testing techniques
• Proficiency with RF simulation tools such as electromagnetic modelling software
• Experience with Python, MATLAB, or similar technical programming environments
• Familiarity with optical communication systems is advantageous
• Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and collaborative working style

What Is Offered

• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Opportunity to join an early-stage deep-technology company and contribute to shaping its technical direction
• A collaborative, innovative engineering environment
• Flat organisational structure and strong opportunities for career development and technical leadership
• The chance to work on cutting-edge technologies in high-speed photonics and communications

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Jack Kindell