The Role
Lead and manage optical engineers developing complex optical systems for quantum computing and laser-based semiconductor equipment. Oversee optical specifications, tolerance analysis, performance modeling, system integration, project plans, budgets, vendors, documentation, quality, and regulatory compliance. Recruit and mentor engineers while collaborating with physicists and hardware and software teams.
Summary Generated by Built In
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.
As Optical Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of optical engineers who are driving the development and implementation of optical solutions for our quantum computers. You will bring in-depth knowledge of laser systems, optical design and laser materials processing.
Job Requirements
- Hire, lead, mentor and manage a team of high-performing optical engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Provide technical leadership for the design, development, and optimization of complex optical systems for laser-based semiconductor equipment.
- Lead the development of optical specifications, tolerance analysis and performance models.
- Ensure the integration of optical systems with mechanical and software components.
- Develop and execute project plans, timelines, and budgets, while ensuring cross-functional alignment. Provide clear direction to ensure targets are met and consistent updates to all relevant stakeholders.
- Manage vendor relationships and procurement of optical components.
- Oversee the creation of detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports and user manuals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, maintaining ongoing communication with technical managers, project leaders, peers and support staff.
- Ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.
- Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
Experience & Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field required
- 5+ years in optical system design and development, preferably in optoelectronics, lasers, optical communications, or optics in computing.
Qualifications
- Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing, early-stage startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, and has a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty
- Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of experimental physicists, hardware and software engineers, and support staff
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a changing work environment
- Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging
- Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
- Experience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
- Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
- Deep understanding of optics, laser physics, and optical instrumentation
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience and proficiency to manage projects and teams effectively
- Ability and passion for recruiting the best Optical Engineers from academia and industry
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 $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer a bonus plan and incentive stock options for equity in the company.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in optical system design and development
- Experience with Fourier optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging
- Experience designing high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
- Experience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
- Experience with Onshape, SolidWorks, or equivalent 3D CAD software
- Deep understanding of optics, laser physics, and optical instrumentation
- Ability to manage projects and teams effectively
- Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse technical teams
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a changing work environment
- Ability to recruit optical engineers from academia and industry
- Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds
Atom Computing Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Atom Computing and has not been reviewed or approved by Atom Computing.
-
Healthcare Strength — Healthcare benefits include fully paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, plus life and disability protection. This is presented as a significant strength of the total rewards package.
-
Leave & Time Off Breadth — Unlimited paid time off is offered and highlighted in company materials and postings. This policy is intended to support work-life balance.
-
Retirement Support — A 401(k) company match is offered to support retirement planning. This adds meaningful long-term value alongside salary and health benefits.
Atom Computing Insights
Am I A Good Fit?
Get Personalized Job Insights.
Our AI-powered fit analysis compares your resume with a job listing so you know if your skills & experience align.
Success! Refresh the page to see how your skills align with this role.
The Company
What We Do
Scientific and technological breakthroughs take years of tireless work, fighting for resources and pushing for acceptance of new ideas. What keeps researchers and engineers plodding on to the next big discovery? It’s an obsession. A life’s calling. At Atom Computing, we’re our customers’ biggest fans on the journey of discovery. That’s why we’re obsessed with creating the world’s most scalable and reliable quantum computers—giving them the power to develop breakthroughs that change the world.
