Quantum Operator
On-siteHaywards Heath, England, United Kingdom
Job Summary
Operate, monitor, and maintain ion-trap quantum computing hardware and experimental systems, performing calibration, optimisation, and characterisation of quantum hardware, control systems, and experimental procedures. Support the development, integration, and testing of new quantum hardware and experimental systems while collecting, analysing, and reporting experimental data to support system performance and troubleshooting. Ensure reliable and repeatable operation through careful attention to detail, hands-on problem solving, and following established procedures. This role requires a PhD in physics or a Master's degree in AMO physics with hands-on experience in laser cooling, state preparation, and quantum control, alongside strong data analysis skills using Python. Candidates must demonstrate high reliability, teamwork, and the ability to collaborate closely with physicists and engineering teams to solve technical problems and improve experimental procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Strong hands-on experience with quantum control experiments
- Experience operating and troubleshooting AMO-based quantum systems (e.g., trapped ions, neutral atoms, or related platforms), with practical exposure to key experimental tasks such as laser cooling, state preparation, quantum control, and measurement
- High reliability and attention to detail
- Ability to follow experimental procedures carefully, perform repeatable calibrations and measurements, identify abnormal system behaviour, and maintain accurate records
- Strong teamwork and practical problem-solving
- Ability to work closely with physicists and engineers to operate systems, support hardware integration and testing, and solve experimental issues efficiently
- PhD in physics, quantum technologies, AMO physics, or a closely related field
- Master's degree in AMO physics plus at least 2 years of relevant hands-on experimental experience in a laboratory setting
- Experience with experimental quantum technologies, preferably involving ion-trap or neutral-atom systems, or other optical-based quantum systems
- Practical experience with one or more of the following: laser and optical systems, RF/microwave control, vacuum systems, or high-precision imaging
- Understanding of quantum control, state preparation, measurement, and experimental calibration
- Good data analysis skills and experience using Python or similar programming tools
- Ability to follow, improve, and document experimental procedures for reliable system operation
- Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively across physics and engineering teams to solve technical problems
Desired Qualifications
- Experience working with surface ion traps
- Experience with high vacuum and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, including vacuum chambers, ion pumps, and bakeout procedures
- Experience with automated experimental control, calibration, or measurement systems
- Experience with hardware integration, system testing, or commissioning of new experimental equipment
- Familiarity with Git, data management, or laboratory automation tools
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