Staff Optical Engineer
$175,000–$220,000 year
On-siteBoulder, Colorado, United States or Louisville, Colorado, United States
Job Summary
Lead design, modeling, and validation of complex optical and laser-based subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms. Develop scalable atom addressing and control technologies using digital micromirror devices, spatial light modulators, and fast multi-beam steering architectures. Design atom-resolved detection and feedback systems with state-of-the-art sensors, optimizing readout bandwidth and data throughput. Collaborate with physicists and cross-disciplinary teams to drive designs from research-grade implementations to reliable, scalable hardware. Execute hands-on laboratory efforts including precision alignment, debugging, and performance characterization of multi-channel optical systems. Maintain high-fidelity optical models in Zemax (OpticStudio) and define experimental strategies to characterize stability and scaling limits. Mentor engineers through design reviews and establish best practices for workflows and documentation.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field
- At least 6 years of relevant industry experience
- Master's degree or PhD (may be counted towards experience requirement)
- Strong experience designing, modeling, and validating laser-based, atomic, or quantum optics systems
- Hands-on laboratory expertise in precision optical alignment and experimental troubleshooting
- Proficiency with Zemax (OpticStudio) for optical system design and tolerance analysis
- Working knowledge of SolidWorks sufficient to collaborate on opto-mechanical layouts and interfaces
- Experience using git or similar version control systems for design artifacts, scripts, or analysis tools
- Experience mentoring or technically leading engineers in a research or hardware-focused environment
- Up to 10% travel
- Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 40 pounds without assistance
- Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers
- Able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person)
- Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements
Desired Qualifications
- Background in atomic physics, quantum optics, or photonics research environments
- Experience working with stability-sensitive optical systems subject to thermal, vibrational, or long-term drift effects
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to bridge physics and engineering perspectives
- A hands-on, detail-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and technical accountability
- Positive, collaborative working style and enthusiasm for mentoring and developing engineers
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