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Optical Engineer Quantum Computing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that ... Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that ... Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that ... Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that ... Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems ...

QCi

$141.10K - $182.70K/yr

Manager Optical Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world ...

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$114.75K - $150.24K/yr

Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet ... As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on ...

Atom Computing

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that ... Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical ...

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Optical Engineer Quantum Computing information

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$143.6K

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How much do optical engineer quantum computing jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer quantum computing in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Engineer in Quantum Computing, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer in Quantum Computing, you need a solid background in optics, photonics, and quantum mechanics, usually supported by an advanced degree in physics or engineering. Familiarity with optical simulation software (such as Zemax or COMSOL), hands-on experience with lasers, detectors, and quantum hardware, and knowledge of programming languages like Python or MATLAB are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for innovating and troubleshooting in complex experimental environments. These skills and qualities are critical for designing, optimizing, and implementing optical systems that advance quantum computing technologies.

What are the primary challenges Optical Engineers face when developing quantum computing hardware?

Optical Engineers in quantum computing often encounter challenges related to maintaining signal stability and minimizing loss within complex optical systems. They must carefully design and align components like lasers, lenses, and waveguides to ensure precise control of photons, which are essential for quantum information processing. Collaborating closely with physicists and software engineers, they frequently troubleshoot issues in real-time and adapt designs to evolving experimental requirements, making flexibility and problem-solving key aspects of the role.

What are Optical Engineers in Quantum Computing?

Optical Engineers in Quantum Computing are professionals who design, develop, and optimize optical systems used in quantum computers. They work on components such as lasers, lenses, and photonic circuits that manipulate and read quantum bits (qubits) using light. Their expertise is crucial for building and improving the precision and scalability of quantum hardware, especially in photonics-based quantum computing platforms. Optical Engineers also collaborate with physicists and hardware engineers to integrate optical components with electronic and cryogenic systems. This role is essential for advancing the performance and reliability of next-generation quantum technologies.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer Quantum Computing vs Optical Engineer Photonics?

AspectOptical Engineer Quantum ComputingOptical Engineer Photonics
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related; knowledge of quantum mechanicsBachelor's/Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related; focus on photonics principles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, quantum hardware developmentManufacturing, telecommunications, laser systems, research labs
Industry UsageQuantum computing, advanced research, tech innovationTelecommunications, laser technology, imaging systems

Optical Engineer Quantum Computing and Optical Engineer Photonics share foundational skills in optics and engineering. However, quantum computing roles focus on quantum mechanics applications and hardware development, while photonics roles emphasize laser systems and optical communications. Both careers require strong technical backgrounds but serve different industry needs.

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Quantum Computing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Quantum Optical Engineer - LiDAR, Vibrometry, and Entangled Communication Systems

Quantum Optical Engineer - LiDAR, Vibrometry, and Entangled Communication Systems

Quantum Computing Inc.

Hoboken, NJ • On-site

$141.10K - $182.70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Quantum Optical Engineer - LiDAR, Vibrometry, and Entangled Communication Systems
Location : Hoboken, NJ 07030
Division: CTO
Department : Optical Engineering
Reports to : Manager Optical Engineering
About Us
Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world today. QCi products are designed to operate at room temperature and low power at an affordable cost. The Company's portfolio of core technology and products offer unique capabilities in the areas of high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cyber security as well as remote sensing applications.
Position Description
The Quantum Optical Engineer will contribute to the design, development, testing, and optimization of QCi's advanced remote sensing and secure communication systems. This role combines hands-on laboratory work with system-level optical design, supporting products from initial concept through production.
The successful candidate will have a strong background in optical engineering, photonics, quantum optics, and optoelectronics, along with experience testing and troubleshooting optical systems and analyzing experimental data. Working closely with a cross-disciplinary engineering team, this individual will help improve system performance, reliability, and scalability, while also contributing to quality assurance processes and workflow improvements.
This position is based in Hoboken, NJ, with optional partial work-from-home flexibility. Occasional business travel (less than 10%) may be required. We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, growing environment and is eager to apply optical engineering principles to real-world, cutting-edge technologies.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design and development of optical setups for LiDAR experiments, including beam shaping, collimation, and range-gating techniques.
  • Development and testing of single-photon sensitive vibrometer and communications systems.
  • Experimental validation and characterization of optical components and subsystems.
  • Support of research on optical fault detection methodologies based on vibrometry.
  • Development of recording techniques for entangled photons used in secure communication and data processing systems.
  • Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (G R & R) testing to ensure measurement consistency and reliability in field and lab environments.
  • Collaborations with multi-disciplinary teams (hardware, software, firmware) to refine system performance.

Required Skills and Experience
  • Master's or PhD degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or equivalent experience.
  • 3-5 years Hands-on experience with laser systems, free-space optics, and fiber optics.
  • Background in optoelectronics and WDM techniques for telecom applications.
  • Familiarity with LiDAR principles, time-of-flight measurements, and single-photon detection.
  • Experience with optical metrology and statistical measurement systems analysis (G R & R studies).

Incumbent(s) in this position may be required to perform other duties and special assignments not specifically stated above.
Statements outlined in this section are designated as essential job functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

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