Optical Scientist – Quantum Systems

Summary

In this role, you will contribute to the advancement of neutral-atom-based quantum computing technologies by architecting, prototyping and integrating optical subsystems into QuEra’s next-generation quantum computers. These subsystems rely on diffractive optics, holography, optical tiling strategies, aberration correction, and camera-in-loop feedback to deliver stable, uniform, and precisely controlled optical fields across large qubit arrays. As part of an R&D team, you will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary group of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists to push the boundaries of quantum computing using neutral-atom platforms by helping shape long-term optical system design decisions.

Responsibilities

• Design and prototype scalable optical architectures for trapping, addressing, and readout of next-generation neutral atom qubit arrays.
• Model optical systems including diffraction, aberrations, polarization effects, and alignment sensitivities.
• Establish integration strategies of new optical modules to optimize performance of neutral atom quantum computers.
• Implement diagnostic and calibration strategies linking optical design to experimental outcomes, enabling rapid commissioning and long-term stability.
• Partner with hardware engineering team to translate architectural concepts into deployable hardware and alignment procedures.
• Evaluate emerging beam-shaping and multiplexing technologies for next-generation scalability.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in optical engineering, beam shaping, and optical computing relevant to neutral atom quantum computing.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Optics, Physics, or a related field with a strong background in optical system design and implementation.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with free-space optical alignment, diagnostics, and characterization techniques.
• Proven experience architecting and integrating complex systems with both hardware and software components.
• Demonstrated experience modeling optical propagation, aberrations, and system tolerances using analytical or numerical tools, e.g., Zemax.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar environments for modeling, analysis, and calibration workflows.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to take technical ownership of complex subsystems.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate across physics, engineering, and software teams.
• Track record of publications or significant technical contributions in relevant areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• CAD design skills.
• Proficiency with git, GitHub, and modern collaborative development workflows.
• Experience with neutral atom, ion, or other quantum computing platforms.
• Familiarity with beam shaping technologies such as spatial light modulators, acousto-optic deflectors, diffractive optics.
• Background in stability engineering, including mitigation of thermal, mechanical, and pointing drifts.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $130,400 - $211,900.

We consistently monitor external market data and update base salary ranges accordingly.  We determine base compensation decisions on several factors, including as geographic placement, role-specific knowledge, skills, and/or experience.  In addition to our base salary offerings, we also provide equity grants for all new hires.

QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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