QuEra Computing Laser Systems Engineer at QuEra Computing responsible for design, integration, and operational reliability of laser systems powering neutral atom QPUs. Collaborate across teams and with external partners globally.
Responsibilities
Depending on focus area, responsibilities may include:
Laser Platform Development & R&D
Design and develop infrastructure-grade laser systems built for repeatability, modularity, and field serviceability — programmable optical engines with calibration-friendly architectures, integrated modulators, co-packaging approaches, and well-defined interfaces compatible with automated control and monitoring infrastructure
Evaluate emerging laser technologies and co-development partner systems for technical performance, integration readiness, and long-term scalability
System Integration & Deployment
Contribute to architecting the hosting infrastructure for quantum laser systems — meeting stringent requirements for vibration isolation, thermal stability, noise, and QPU integrability — and own build, integration, and validation across optical, electrical, and mechanical interface standards
Own physical installation and commissioning of laser systems within QPU platforms; manage technical handoffs with build, operations, and development teams
Prepare and ship laser subsystems to domestic and international sites, ensuring systems arrive integration-ready
Operational Reliability & Support
Design and implement laser stabilization systems covering intensity, frequency, and phase noise — including servo loop design, locking architectures, and performance characterization
Monitor and sustain uptime for production and development laser systems; lead triage and root-cause analysis for unplanned downtime
Perform precision fiber alignment and implement automated fiber coupling systems
Qualification
Experience with laser systemsDeep expertise in nonlinear opticsExperience with vibration isolationProven vendor co-development experiencePrior experience in quantum computingPh
Required
B.S. or M.S. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent hands-on experience will be considered
Experience with laser systems, optical subsystems, or opto-mechanical integration in a precision or scientific instrumentation context
Strong experimental and troubleshooting skills, with a hands-on approach to engineering challenges in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams, with clear written and verbal communication
Preferred
Deep expertise in nonlinear optics, frequency conversion techniques, or high-power photonic systems
Experience with vibration isolation, thermal management, and mechanical integration of precision platforms
Proven vendor co-development experience, from requirements definition through prototype and production
Prior experience in quantum computing, advanced photonics, or scientific instrumentation environments
Background in AMO experiments or quantum systems; familiarity with how laser performance requirements arise from atomic physics constraints is a strong plus
Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (strongly preferred for R&D-focused roles)
The approximate base salary range for this position is $128,000 - $208,000.
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.