Senior Optical Engineer

At Infleqtion we solve the worlds most challenging problems using cutting-edge quantum technology. Our mission is to commercialize atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in sensing and computing applications. We are proud to work tirelessly to create and lead the quantum ecosystem towards meaningful advancements today and set the technology roadmap for tomorrow.

POSITION SUMMARY

Within Infleqtions Quantum Computing Product Group the Hardware Engineering Team is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to independently design implement and validate complex optical subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms.

The successful candidate will serve as an experienced individual contributor working closely with physicists and cross-disciplinary engineering teams to translate experimental requirements into robust optical designs. This role is hands-on and laboratory-focused with increasing responsibility for technical execution problem solving and informal mentorship of developing engineers.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Typically you will be entrusted with:

• Designing modeling and validating of optical and laser-based subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms.
• Integrating and testing scalable atom addressing and control technologies. This includes but is not limited to digital micromirror devices (DMDs) spatial light modulators (SLMs) acousto-optic deflectors (AODs) electro-optic modulators (EOMs) metasurface-based optics and fast multi-beam steering architectures.
• Collaborating closely with physicists and optical mechanical electrical software and systems engineersto support the full experimental and hardware development lifecycle from early research demonstrations to integrated scalable systems.
• Leading hands-on laboratory efforts including optical assembly precision alignment debugging and performance characterization of complex multi-channel optical systems.
• Developing and maintaining high-fidelity optical modelsusing Zemax (OpticStudio) including tolerance analysis sensitivity studies and performance optimization informed by experimental data and system-level requirements.
• Executing on the transition within a defined architecture of optical subsystems from research-grade configurations to commercial ready repeatable maintainable and scalable hardware.
• Providing technical guidance and informal mentorshipto optical engineers through design reviews and hands-on coaching.
• Establishing and improving best practices for optical design workflows laboratory procedures documentation and version control.

• Bachelors degree in optical engineering physics or a related field with at least 4 years of relevant experience. A Masters degree or Ph.D. is preferred. Relevant graduate research (M.S. or Ph.D.) may be counted toward the experience requirement.
• Strong foundation in geometrical Fourier and physical optics including Gaussian beam propagation thin-lens imaging optical relays telescopes/beam expanders imaging systems microscope optics diffraction polarization and spatial filtering.
• Proficiency with Zemax (OpticStudio) for optical system design sequential modeling aberration analysis PSF/MTF analysis optimization and tolerancing.
• Proficiency in Python for Zemax automation and data analysis.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks sufficient to collaborate on opto-mechanical layouts and design reviews.
• Experience designing modeling and validating laser-based optics systems for microscopy lithography atomic physics or quantum applications.
• Experience with spatial light modulators (SLMs) including optical setup calibration beam shaping or pattern generation and integration into laser-based or quantum optics systems.
• Experience designing and analyzing beam-delivery and imaging systems including Gaussian beam and fiber mode-field modeling fiber coupling apodization point-spread-function analysis modulation-transfer-function analysis Fourier optics and 4-f optical systems.
• Hands-on experience integrating and troubleshooting common optical components and modulators including filters optical fibers polarizers waveplates diffraction gratings AOMs/AODs EOMs and SLMs.
• Working knowledge of laboratory electronics and instrumentation used in optical experiments including photodetectors oscilloscopes spectrum analyzers signal generators amplifiers and electronic filters.
• Hands-on laboratory expertise in precision optical alignment and experimental troubleshooting.
• Experience using Git or similar version control systems for design artifacts scripts or analysis tools.

WE HIGHLY VALUE:

• Experience working with stability-sensitive optical systems subject to thermal vibrational or long-term drift effects.
• A hands-on detail-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and technical accountability.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills with the ability to bridge physics and engineering perspectives.
• Positive collaborative working style and enthusiasm for mentoring and developing engineers.

NOTE

• Job responsibilities and requirements are illustrative other responsibilities may be assigned as needed.
• This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

TRAVEL

Up to 10% travel may be required.

WORKING CONDITIONS and PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and to sit stand bend lift and carry up to 40 pounds without to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops copiers and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone computer or in-person).Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements.

• Salary range: $155000 to $185000 per year
• 100% company-paid medical dental vision short/long-term disability
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account
• Unlimited PTO
• 401(k) match
• Company-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Flexible Savings Account
• Paid FMLA Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Student Loan Repayment
• Equity Package

Required Experience:

Senior IC