Lead Photonics Systems Architect for Quantum Lasers

Monarch Quantum; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision

401(k) with 4% match

20 PTO days

13 holidays

9/80 schedule

Job summary

Monarch Quantum seeks a Senior Principal Photonics Systems Engineer to lead the architecture and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies. You will shape core photonics and control tech, guide designs, and collaborate across optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical teams in a fast-growing startup.

You will mentor engineers, define system requirements, and ensure rigorous validation, modeling, and testing to deliver ultra-low noise performance and reliable operation, in

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience designing and testing complex photonic or laser-based systems.
• Strong expertise in narrow linewidth lasers and low-noise controls.
• Experience in optical system modeling, alignment, and noise analysis.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Experience in quantum systems or precision metrology is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide system-level direction on the architecture, design, and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies.
• Define and guide the development of core photonics and control technologies, including laser stabilization, narrow linewidth sources, and low-noise electronic control systems.
• Lead efforts to achieve ultra-low noise performance and exceptional reliability through rigorous design, modeling, and experimental validation.
• Collaborate closely with optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical engineers
• Provide technical expertise to development of and maintenance system-level requirements, specifications, and performance validation protocols.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.

Skills

Laser systems

Frequency stabilization

Low-noise controls

Optical modeling

Experimental design

Data analysis

Laboratory metrology

Leadership

Communication

Quantum tech

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Physics/EE/Optics

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Monarch Quantum seeks a Senior Principal Photonics Systems Engineer to lead the architecture and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies. You will shape core photonics and control tech, guide designs, and collaborate across optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical teams in a fast-growing startup.

You will mentor engineers, define system requirements, and ensure rigorous validation, modeling, and testing to deliver ultra-low noise performance and reliable operation, in