Optical Assembly and Alignment Engineer
Atom Computing · Boulder, United States · 2h ago
At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
We are seeking an Optical Assembly & Alignment Engineer to build, align, and verify optical breadboards and laser-delivery assemblies for neutral-atom quantum computers. This hands-on role delivers tested optical subsystems and alignment records to the system integration team.
Responsibilities
- Assemble optical breadboards and optomechanical hardware from released layouts, drawings, bills of materials, and work instructions.
- Install and align lenses, mirrors, polarization optics, and fiber-coupling assemblies to establish the required beam paths and subsystem interfaces.
- Measure optical power, beam profile, polarization, and coupling performance; use wavefront measurements where required by approved test procedures.
- Troubleshoot optical loss, clipping, alignment drift, and polarization errors; document findings and perform approved adjustments or rework.
- Work with Optical Bonding Technicians to establish pre-bond alignment and verify that curing or fastening has not disturbed optical performance.
- Maintain optical cleanliness, protect sensitive coatings, and follow approved handling and laser-safety practices throughout assembly and test.
- Complete subsystem verification and maintain component, alignment, and measurement records; support resolution of optical issues found during system integration.
- Learn first-of-a-kind methods alongside Engineering and improve repeat-build alignment instructions, fixtures, and assembly sequences with Manufacturing Engineering.
Experience & Education
- BS in optics, optical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant optical-engineering experience; advanced degree preferred.
- 5+ years of hands-on optical assembly, free-space alignment, fiber coupling, and characterization of precision laser or photonics hardware.
- Experience building from controlled optical layouts and recording repeatable measurements for subsystem acceptance.
- Experience with neutral-atom quantum-computer optics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) laboratory systems, or precision scientific instrumentation preferred.
Qualifications
- Strong practical knowledge of free-space beam alignment, polarization control, fiber coupling, and the relationship between component placement and optical performance.
- Proficiency with optical power meters, beam-imaging cameras, and related bench metrology; wavefront-measurement experience preferred.
- Ability to interpret optical layouts and optomechanical drawings and work safely with delicate coated optics.
- Systematic troubleshooting and careful recordkeeping so another engineer can reproduce alignment and verification results.
- Ability to work closely with bonding, verification, and integration teams; familiarity with measurement-data analysis or laboratory scripting preferred.
- Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!
The base salary range for this position is between $140,000 - $170,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.