Test Engineer for Photonics Physics Package - 970

Utilicom; Broomfield, Northern (CO, KY); Hybrid; USD 131,000 - 176,000; Full time

Job summary

Utilicom is seeking a Test Engineer for Photonics Physics Package in Broomfield, CO to support trapped-ion photonics R&D. The role focuses on building and operating a cryogenic vacuum test stand, translating test objectives into practical hardware, and automating data collection and analysis.

The ideal candidate has 4+ years of hardware build, integration, and test experience in ultrahigh vacuum or cryogenic optical systems, plus 2+ years Python programming. U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree minimum.
• 4+ years in hardware build, integration and test in ultrahigh vacuum, cryogenic, coherent optical or integrated photonics systems.
• 2+ years Python programming or related language.
• 3+ years hands-on build and assembly of scientific hardware and systems using hand-tools and wiring.
• 1+ year test automation experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, build, and operation of a new cryogenic and vacuum test stand for characterizing components for ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic operation.
• Collaborate with engineers to translate objectives into fixtures, test hardware, and experimental setups.
• Define requirements, configure equipment specs, and assemble a complete test system for cryo vacuum chambers.
• Develop and execute test plans to generate reliable results while handling cryogens and lasers safely.
• Automate hardware, processes, data acquisition, and data analysis.
• Build test samples and test systems to specifications and troubleshoot as needed.
• Generate documentation of test plans and findings and provide data-driven feedback.

Skills

Python scripting

Cryogenics

Vacuum systems

Optical engineering

Test automation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Onshape CAD

FEA

Job description

• Test Engineer for Photonics Physics Package - 970

Description

Test Engineer for Photonics Physics Package - 970

We are seeking a Test Engineer for Photonics Physics Package to support trapped-ion integrated photonics R&D at our Broomfield, CO location.

Our team develops optics and integrated photonics technologies that enable scaling of our trapped-ion quantum computers from our current 98-qubit Helios system to our future Lumos system with hundreds of thousands of qubits. The data, designs, and expertise from our group inform our next-generation systems, from the overall architecture to the tiniest of details. We are looking for more engineers and scientists to join our cross-disciplinary team.

All applicants for placement in safety-sensitive positions will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug test.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development, build, and operation of a new quick-turn cryogenic and vacuum test stand for characterizing and validating components and systems for ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic operation
• Collaborate closely with engineers and scientists to translate test objectives into effective sample fixtures, test hardware, and experimental setups, drawing on cross-functional expertise throughout design and execution.
• Define requirements, configure equipment specifications, and assemble a complete test system for controlling and interfacing with cryo vacuum chambers
• Develop and execute test plans to generate reliable test results while maintaining safe operating conditions working with cryogens, ultra-high vacuum, and lasers
• Automate hardware, processes, data acquisition, and data analysis
• Build test samples, ultra-high vacuum systems, and test & measurement systems to specifications, including troubleshooting issues and failures as needed
• Generate detailed documentation of test plans and findings, including details on test instrumentation, processes, and specific sample setup
• Analyze and interpret data to provide feedback and recommendations to support iterative development

YOU MUST HAVE:

• Bachelor's degree minimum
• Minimum 4 years' experience (advanced degree inclusive) in hardware building, integration, and test in one or more of the following areas: ultrahigh vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, coherent optical systems, integrated photonics systems
• Minimum 2 years' experience (degree inclusive) in python programming or related language
• Minimum 3 years' experience (advanced degree inclusive) with hands-on build and assembly of scientific hardware and systems using hand-tools, fasteners, electrical wiring, etc.
• Minimum 1 year experience (advanced degree inclusive) in test automation using programming and/or control systems
• Due to Contractual requirements, must be a U.S. Person defined as, U.S. citizen permanent resident or green card holder, workers granted asylum or refugee status
• Due to national security requirements imposed by the U.S. Government, candidates for this position must not be a People's Republic of China national or Russian national unless the candidate is also a U.S. citizen.

WE VALUE:

• Master's degree in instrumentation, in mechanical engineering, engineering physics, electrical engineering, optical engineering, engineering, physics, or physical science
• Broad understanding of fundamental optical, mechanical, thermal, and/or cryogenic principles and practices, and experience applying this knowledge in detail to engineering or scientific projects
• Experience with test & measurement equipment, such as power supplies, function generators, electronic loads, multimeters, network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, rf signal generators
• Experience in scripting tests and automation using Python or similar programming language
• Experience in four or more of the following areas:
  • ultra-high vacuum principles and equipment
  • cryogenic principles and equipment
  • mechanical design and analysis tools, including 3D CAD systems such as Onshape and finite element analysis (FEA)
  • handling chemicals and choosing adhesives
  • using standard laboratory equipment such as microscopes, ovens, fume hoods
  • free-space optics, fiber optics, integrated photonics, and/or lasers
  • basic laboratory electronics, such as PCB design, soldering, assembling electrical connectors and cables
• Experience working in a laboratory, production, or cleanroom environment with cleanliness and ESD awareness
• Ability to read and follow simple electrical and mechanical schematics and assembly documentation
• Experience working in a team and collaborating across disciplines
• Deep curiosity and interest in learning new things

Compensation & Benefits:

The pay range for this role is $131,000 $176,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range may vary based on the candidate's skills, educational background, professional experience, and unique qualifications for the role.

$131,000 - $176,000 a year