Abstract: An optical integrated circuit (IC) is provided that includes a waveguide to propagate light in the IC. A diffractive element, such as a grating, couples light between the waveguide and an external optical connector. At least one alignment feature is lithographically formed in the optical IC to facilitate precise positioning of the optical connector on the optical IC. Since the alignment feature is lithographically formed in a precise relation to the diffractive element, the optical connector can be accurately positioned and optically coupled to the optical IC. Complex optical-feedback-based alignment equipment and operations to achieve optical coupling of the optical connector with the waveguide in the optical IC are not necessary.