Optical Scientist – Quantum Systems

Summary

In this role youwill contributeto the advancement of neutral-atom-based quantum computing technologiesby architectingprototypingand integratingoptical subsystemsinto QuEras next-generation quantum computers.These subsystemsrely on diffractive opticsholography optical tiling strategies aberrationcorrection and camera-in-loop feedbacktodeliver stable uniform and precisely controlled optical fields across large qubit arrays.As part of anR&Dteam youwill collaborate closely with a multidisciplinarygroupof physicists engineers and computer scientists to push the boundaries of quantum computing using neutral-atom platformsbyhelping shape long-term opticalsystem design decisions.

Responsibilities

• Design and prototype scalable optical architectures for trapping addressing and readout ofnext-generationneutral atom qubit arrays.
• Model optical systems including diffraction aberrations polarization effects and alignment sensitivities.
• Establish integration strategies of new optical modules to optimize performance of neutral atom quantum computers.
• Implement diagnostic and calibration strategies linking optical design to experimental outcomes enabling rapid commissioning and long-term stability.
• Partner with hardware engineering team to translate architectural concepts into deployable hardware and alignment procedures.
• Evaluate emerging beam-shaping and multiplexing technologies for next-generation scalability.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in optical engineering beam shaping andoptical computingrelevant toneutral atomquantum computing.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Optics Physics or a related field with a strong background in optical system design and implementation.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with free-space optical alignment diagnostics and characterization techniques.
• Proven experience architecting and integrating complex systems with both hardware and software components.
• Demonstrated experience modeling optical propagation aberrations and system tolerances using analytical or numerical tools e.g. Zemax.
• Strong programming skills in Python C MATLAB or similar environments for modeling analysis and calibration workflows.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to take technical ownership of complex subsystems.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate across physics engineering and software teams.
• Track record of publications or significant technical contributions in relevant areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• CAD design skills.
• Proficiency with git GitHub and modern collaborative development workflows.
• Experience with neutral atom ion or other quantum computing platforms.
• Familiarity with beam shaping technologies such as spatial light modulators acousto-optic deflectors diffractive optics.
• Background in stability engineering including mitigation of thermal mechanical and pointing drifts.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $130400 - $211900.

We consistently monitor external market data and update base salary ranges accordingly. We determine base compensation decisions on several factors including as geographic placement role-specific knowledge skills and/or addition to our base salary offerings we also provide equity grants for all new hires.

QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race religion color national origin gender gender expression sexual orientation age marital status veteran status disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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