Neutral Atom Quantum Hardware Engineer

Elevate Quantum; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 105,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Elevate Quantum in Albuquerque, NM is launching a dedicated neutral atom quantum testbed and seeks a hands-on Quantum Hardware Engineer to lead build, integration, and early-operations work. You will own subsystems from assembly to characterization, ensuring robust laser, vacuum, and control systems.

This role demands AMO lab experience, laser stabilization, vacuum expertise, and strong Python programming for control and data analysis. Occasional travel for engagement is expected.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Physics or Optical Engineering or related field.
• 2–5+ years of hands-on AMO lab experience with neutral atoms.
• Experience with laser cooling, frequency stabilization, and vacuum systems.
• Hands-on alignment of free-space and fiber optics; diagnostics and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency in Python for experiment control and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Build and commission the neutral atom testbed, including designing and aligning optical paths, setting up laser systems, assembling ultra-high vacuum systems, and integrating control electronics.
• Take ownership of assigned subsystems from assembly through characterization and documentation, including laser frequency stabilization, vacuum system assembly and bakeout, atom loading and imaging.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, optical, vacuum, and electronic issues to keep the build on schedule and the system running.
• Develop and maintain experiment control, data acquisition, and system monitoring software in Python.
• Support the testbed’s transition to operations, including system maintenance, benchmarking and validation campaigns, and development of SOPs.
• Assist with other tasks as needed in support of the initiative’s technical and operational goals.

Skills

Laser cooling

Laser stabilization

Vacuum systems

Optical alignment

Python

AMO lab experience

Education

Master’s or PhD in Physics/Optical Sciences

Tools

Vacuum hardware tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

Elevate Quantum in Albuquerque, NM is launching a dedicated neutral atom quantum testbed and seeks a hands-on Quantum Hardware Engineer to lead build, integration, and early-operations work. You will own subsystems from assembly to characterization, ensuring robust laser, vacuum, and control systems.

This role demands AMO lab experience, laser stabilization, vacuum expertise, and strong Python programming for control and data analysis. Occasional travel for engagement is expected.