At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
We are seeking an Optical Assembly & Alignment Engineer to build, align, and verify optical breadboards and laser-delivery assemblies for neutral-atom quantum computers. This hands‑on role delivers tested optical subsystems and alignment records to the system integration team.
Responsibilities
- Assemble optical breadboards and optomechanical hardware from released layouts, drawings, bills of materials, and work instructions.
- Install and align lenses, mirrors, polarization optics, and fiber-coupling assemblies to establish the required beam paths and subsystem interfaces.
- Measure optical power, beam profile, polarization, and coupling performance; use wavefront measurements where required by approved test procedures.
- Troubleshoot optical loss, clipping, alignment drift, and polarization errors; document findings and perform approved adjustments or rework.
- Work with Optical Bonding Technicians to establish pre-bond alignment and verify that curing or fastening has not disturbed optical performance.
- Maintain optical cleanliness, protect sensitive coatings, and follow approved handling and laser-safety practices throughout assembly and test.
- Complete subsystem verification and maintain component, alignment, and measurement records; support resolution of optical issues found during system integration.
- Learn first‑of‑a‑kind methods alongside Engineering and improve repeat‑build alignment instructions, fixtures, and assembly sequences with Manufacturing Engineering.
Experience & Education
- BS in optics, optical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant optical-engineering experience; advanced degree preferred.
- 5+ years of hands‑on optical assembly, free‑space alignment, fiber coupling, and characterization of precision laser or photonics hardware.
- Experience building from controlled optical layouts and recording repeatable measurements for subsystem acceptance.
- Experience with neutral‑atom quantum‑computer optics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) laboratory systems, or precision scientific instrumentation preferred.
Qualifications
- Strong practical knowledge of free‑space beam alignment, polarization control, fiber coupling, and the relationship between component placement and optical performance.
- Proficiency with optical power meters, beam‑imaging cameras, and related bench metrology; wavefront‑measurement experience preferred.
- Ability to interpret optical layouts and optomechanical drawings and work safely with delicate coated optics.
- Systematic troubleshooting and careful recordkeeping so another engineer can reproduce alignment and verification results.
- Ability to work closely with bonding, verification, and integration teams; familiarity with measurement‑data analysis or laboratory scripting preferred.
- Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
$140,000 - $170,000 a year
Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents.Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.
The base salary range for this position is between $140,000 - $170,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.