Senior Engineer, Optical

We are looking for an optical engineer. As an optical engineer, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems. 

In this role, you will play a pivotal role in the design and development of complex hardware for cutting-edge quantum computer systems. The successful candidate will have a strong foundation in optics and laser systems for complex hardware technologies. Additionally, the successful candidate should possess a keen eye for detail, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams in a dynamic research and development environment.

Responsibilities: 

• Work with the research and development team to design, develop, test, and integrate optical components for quantum computers
• Collaborate with physicists, engineers, and product managers to ensure successful implementation of complex optical systems
• Conduct optical analysis and simulations to verify and optimize system performance and efficiency
• Provide expertise in laser systems, fiber optics,  beam shaping, and steering optics for ultra-high precision applications
• Support the design and assembly of optical launch plates and mounting structures for precise alignment of optical components
• Communicate and work with vendors to procure specialized optics and hardware required for the quantum computing systems
• Conduct testing and validation of optical systems to ensure performance meets project requirements
• Contribute to technical documentation and communicate findings to cross-functional teams
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in optical technologies and apply them to improve system performance
• Collaborate with the program management office to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time, if not located onsite to support assembly and testing responsibilities

You’d be a good fit with: 

• Master’s degree in optical, opto-mechanical, mechanical engineering or related field
• 3+ years of progressive experience working in an engineering or related discipline in the technology sector delivering first of kind systems and products to customers
• Fundamental understanding of optical architectures from specifications to first principle,  especially the laser systems
• Proficient in using optical design software (e.g., Zemax, FRED, Code V) for lens design, tolerancing, and optical analysis and simulations of laser systems (gaussian beam propagations)
• CAD software familiarization (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for providing optical beam paths to support mechanical design and modeling of optical components and structures
• Familiarity with MATLAB or Python for data analysis and scripting
• Expertise with Optical measurement and testing tools (e.g., interferometers, collimators, beam profilers, power meters, spectrometers) for validating optical component and system performance
• Familiarization with Jira or similar collaboration tools for tracking and managing project tasks and timelines
• Proficient in rapidly setting up and conducting hands-on lab tests

You’d be a great fit with: 

• Extensive experience in designing, integrating, aligning, and testing complex optical systems, particularly in laser beam systems for quantum computing and related fields
• Skilled in developing creative technical solutions for complex problems with high precision and performance optical setups
• In-depth knowledge of optics principles, components, laser systems, and their applications in quantum technologies
• Direct experience in specifying and testing optical systems, including proficiency in optical test and evaluation equipment (wavefront sensor, interferometer, beam profiler, near field and far field imaging sensors), and precision alignment and metrology techniques
• Proven track record of contributing to innovative solutions and cutting-edge research projects in optical engineering
• Familiarity with challenges and considerations in integrating optical components into quantum computing systems
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Passionate about advancing optical engineering and contributing to quantum computing technology advancements