Winter 2026 R&D Intern – Integrated Photonics | PINC Technologies
The ever growing technological advances in computing, communication, and sensing depend on photonics. PINC builds the transformative integrated photonic platform to address these needs and make that future possible. Our proprietary NanoPPLN photonic platform is based on pioneering advancements from the Nonlinear Photonics Laboratory at Caltech. PINC is an early-stage startup with venture backing from leading financial investors and major global photonics companies. We are growing quickly and looking for passionate, highly driven, and self-disciplined individuals to join us on this journey, who are excited to push the boundaries of Photonic technologies. This is an excellent opportunity for people who excel in a fast-paced environment, approach challenges with a “can-do” mindset, and work collaboratively to inspire others while helping to build a strong team around them and with them as we scale the company together.
The Opportunity
Join us as an Integrated Photonics R&D Intern at PINC Technologies in Pasadena, where you’ll gain hands-on experience at the forefront of integrated photonics. This is a unique chance to contribute to the development of next-generation photonic products in an early-stage, fast-growing startup environment.
You’ll work closely with an interdisciplinary team of engineers, getting exposure to product development from concept to validation. You’ll design experiments, test devices, analyze data, and help us push the boundaries of photonic integrated circuits.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optics, or a related field. Responsibilities and scope will be tailored to the candidate’s experience level.
- Strong understanding of general photonics and optics
- Hands-on experience in photonic integrated circuit testing using optical and electronic lab equipment (e.g. lasers, OSAs)
- Exposure to developing and implementing automated testing in Python and/or LabVIEW
- Ability to work independently in a lab environment
- Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for collaborating in a fast-paced setting
- Minimum 10-week full-time internship (longer preferred), in-person, at our Pasadena, CA facility
- Authorization to work in the US
Preferred Experience
- Experience in startup or early-stage R&D environments with rapid iteration cycles.
- Experience in design, simulation, and layout of passive and/or nonlinear photonic components
- Background in nonlinear optics and ultrafast laser labs
- Experience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) and basic PCB design tools
- Experience with RF characterization tools
Benefits
- Exceptional opportunity for professional growth and hands-on learning
- Competitive compensation
- Potential for conversion to full-time employment
- Company-sponsored team outings
Life in Pasadena
Our office is located in the heart of Pasadena, a world-class hub for science, technology, and entrepreneurship, with close ties to Caltech and Southern California’s broader innovation community, and access to vibrant neighborhoods, culture, dining, and outdoor activities, all within minutes of Los Angeles.