Quantum Physicist

Jobtailor; Colorado; On-site; USD 120,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Jobtailor is seeking a highly skilled Quantum Physicist to design, calibrate, and maintain neutral-atom quantum computers. You will lead R&D projects for laser systems and quantum processing units, translating high-level requirements into concrete subsystems while developing experimental software.

The role requires a PhD in atomic/optical physics or equivalent experience, strong Python ability, and excellent collaboration skills within an agile team environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in atomic/optical physics or equivalent experience (4+ years).
• Proficiency with lasers, acousto-optic modulators, RF generators/analyzers, and ultrahigh vacuum systems.
• Proficiency in Python for running physics experiments.
• Strong communication across technical and non-technical staff.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, calibrate and maintain quantum computers based on neutral atoms.
• Lead R&D projects for laser systems, quantum processing units, and gate protocols.
• Translate system requirements into engineering subsystems and models.

Skills

Python

Lasers

Git

Linux

Lab equipment

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in atomic/optical physics or related field

Equivalent professional experience (≥4 years)

Tools

Acousto-optic modulators

RF signal generators

RF analyzers

Ultra-high vacuum systems

High-power CW lasers (>1W)

Short-wavelength lasers (<500 nm)

Git

Linux

CLI / terminal tools

Job description

Responsibilities

• Design, build, calibrate and maintain Quantum Computers based on neutral atoms.
• Participate and/or lead Research and Development projects for laser systems, Quantum Processing Units, quantum gate protocols, etc. for Quantum Computers.
• Create, test, and validate mathematical models of atomic physics behavior, and use the results to inform system design by translating high‑level system requirements into specialized engineering subsystems.
• Self‑start and successfully execute on a new R&D activity given a well‑defined goal and constraints (e.g. resources, timeframe): gather requirements from stakeholders, drive definition of solution space, drive project execution.
• Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting experiments and system tuning in production.
• Design, assemble, and test laser and optical systems.
• Ownership of subsystems to maintain high availability and high performance.
• Mentor and teach junior team members as indirect reports and supervise interns.

Requirements

• PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional experience (4+ years); If you have substantially more experience than this and are excited to apply, please do! We will also consider hiring at the Senior Quantum Physicist level.
• Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto‑optic modules, RF signal generators and analyzers, and ultra‑high‑vacuum systems.
• Proficiency in writing Python code for running physics experiments.
• Proficiency in calculating atom‑light interaction for input laser specifications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to effectively share information with technical and non‑technical staff at all levels of company hierarchy.
• Excellent collaboration skills, ability to work in an agile efficient team environment where engagement, feedback, and participation are an expected part of successful job performance.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills and fast learning rate.
• Ability to work both autonomously—taking high‑level goals as input to develop and execute an optimal plan while gathering necessary resources—and collaboratively, by soliciting and incorporating input from colleagues.
• It is a plus if you have:
• Experience in operating high‑power CW laser (> 1 Watt) and/or short‑wavelength visible laser (< 500 nm) and designing their laser power delivery systems.
• Experience with characterization and mitigation of laser frequency and intensity noise.
• Experience with analog electronics and use of servo loops for laser and subsystem stabilization.
• Experience with image projection through a high numerical aperture (NA) imaging system.
• Experience in integrating heterogeneous subsystems for a complex physics experiment.
• Familiarity with Git, Linux, and command line interface (CLI) tools.
• Enthusiasm for staying up‑to‑date with latest developments in AMO physics and reviewing relevant papers for the team.

Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in Quantum Computing, including the design and calibration of systems based on neutral atoms, and proficiency in Python for experimental software development. Strong ability to lead R&D projects, mentor team members, and effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.