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Infleqtion is commercializing atom-based quantum products for sensing and computing applications. Within the Quantum Computing Product Group's Hardware Engineering Team, this Staff Optical Engineer role provides deep technical contribution and subsystem-level leadership in advanced optical systems for neutral-atom quantum computing.
You will independently own complex optical subsystems, working closely with physicists and cross-disciplinary engineering teams to translate experimental requirements into robust, high-performance optical designs. This is a hands-on, laboratory-focused role with responsibility for driving designs from research-grade implementations toward reliable, scalable hardware solutions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading design, modeling, and validation of complex optical and laser-based subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms
- Developing and integrating scalable atom addressing and control technologies (DMDs, SLMs, AODs, EOMs, metasurface optics, multi-beam steering)
- Designing atom-resolved detection and feedback systems using SPAD/EMCCD/sCMOS cameras and high-speed photodetectors
- Collaborating with physicists, optical, mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers across the full development lifecycle
- Leading hands-on laboratory efforts including optical assembly, precision alignment, debugging, and performance characterization
- Developing high-fidelity optical models using Zemax (OpticStudio) with tolerance analysis and optimization
- Defining experimental strategies to characterize optical stability, drift, and noise sources
- Leading transition of optical subsystems from research-grade to repeatable, scalable hardware
- Mentoring optical engineers through design reviews and hands-on coaching
- Establishing best practices for optical design workflows, laboratory procedures, and documentation
- Supporting technical troubleshooting and cross-functional design reviews
Required qualifications: Bachelor's in optical engineering, physics, or related field with 6+ years relevant industry experience (Master's or PhD preferred). Strong experience designing laser-based, atomic, or quantum optics systems. Hands-on laboratory expertise in precision optical alignment and troubleshooting. Proficiency with Zemax (OpticStudio) and working knowledge of SolidWorks. Experience with git or version control. Experience mentoring or technically leading engineers in research or hardware environments.
Highly valued: Background in atomic physics, quantum optics, or photonics research. Experience with stability-sensitive optical systems subject to thermal, vibrational, or drift effects. Strong communication bridging physics and engineering. Detail-oriented mindset with ownership and accountability. Collaborative working style and mentoring enthusiasm.
Up to 10% travel required. Work performed in office and laboratory environment around technical equipment including computers and lasers.
