Optical Engineer (Quantum Computing)

Socket.dev; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 130,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Disability insurance

Unlimited PTO

401(k) match

Life Insurance

Job summary

Infleqtion is seeking an Optical Engineer to design, align, and validate optical subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms. You will work hands-on in the lab, contribute across physics and engineering teams, and document procedures and results.

The role emphasizes rigorous experimental work, collaboration, and continued improvement of workflows. A bachelor’s in optical engineering or physics is required, with Zemax experience and readiness to learn SolidWorks.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with optical alignment and laboratory measurements.
• Familiarity with Zemax (OpticStudio) for optical system design.
• Strong experimental rigor and documentation habits.

Responsibilities

• Designing and aligning optical subsystems for neutral‑atom experiments and hardware platforms.
• Developing and maintaining high‑fidelity optical models using Zemax, including tolerance analysis and optimization.
• Performing optical assembly, alignment, testing, troubleshooting, and characterization of complex multi‑channel optical systems.
• Collaborating with physicists and engineers to integrate optical systems into experimental platforms.
• Documenting designs, plans, test results, and procedures.
• Supporting improvements for optical design workflows and lab procedures.

Skills

Hands-on optical alignment

Optical measurements

Zemax (OpticStudio)

Documentation habits

SolidWorks (basics)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering or physics

Tools

Zemax

SolidWorks

Job description

At Infleqtion we solve the world’s 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 Infleqtion’s Quantum Computing Product Group, the Hardware Engineering Team is seeking an Optical Engineer to design, build, and validate complex optical subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms.

This role emphasizes hands‑on laboratory work, strong individual technical contribution, and close collaboration with physicists and cross‑disciplinary engineering teams.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Typically, you will be entrusted with:

• Designing and aligning optical subsystems for neutral‑atom experiments and hardware platforms.
• 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.
• Performing optical assembly, alignment, testing, troubleshooting, and characterization of complex, multi‑channel optical systems.
• Collaborating with physicists and optical, mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineersto integrate optical systems into experimental platforms.
• Documenting designs, plans of action, test results, and procedures.
• Supporting the continuous improvement for optical design workflows, laboratory procedures, documentation, and version control.

• Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Hands‑on experience with optical alignment and laboratory measurements.
• Familiarity with Zemax (OpticStudio) for optical system design.
• Strong experimental rigor and documentation habits.
• Desire to learn basic SolidWorks.

WE HIGHLY VALUE:

• Curiosity and enthusiasm for experimental optics.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality work.

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 lasers. Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 40 pounds without assistance. Able 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: $130,000 to $155,000 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

Note

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations for quantum computing technology. 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.

Notice to Recruitment Agencies:

Infleqtion does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Infleqtion is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.