Optics Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an Optics Engineer in our Broomfield, CO location to join our engineering and manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, assembling, aligning, integrating, characterizing, and testing optical systems used in Quantinuum's quantum computers. This role supports research and development, prototype builds, optical characterization, system integration, documentation development, and production readiness activities. You will ensure that optical systems meet technical specifications, performance requirements, and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in optical system design and integration, laser characterization, optical metrology, precision alignment, and opto-mechanical assembly.

All applicants for placement in safety-sensitive positions will be required to submit a pre-employment drug test.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, build, assemble, align, and characterize complex, high-precision optical subassemblies and optical systems.
• Integrate prototype and proof-of-concept systems involving lasers, optics, fiber optics, electronics, software, and precision mechanical assemblies.
• Perform optical characterization and metrology, including measurements of optical power, phase, frequency, polarization, stability, and noise.
• Troubleshoot optical and opto-mechanical systems and perform root cause failure analysis to support product improvements and manufacturing readiness.
• Develop, execute, and document optical test plans, characterization procedures, and engineering work instructions.
• Collect, analyze, graph, interpret, and present experimental and production data to support engineering decisions.
• Collaborate with Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering teams and Scientists to develop, validate, and transition new optical technologies into production.
• Support prototype development, sustaining engineering activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain detailed engineering documentation, test reports, and design records in accordance with production standards.
• Package completed optical assemblies and ensure products meet commercial manufacturing quality requirements.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, equipment guidelines, and quality standards during all engineering activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

You Must Have:

• Bachelor's degree minimum.
• 1+ years of experience in optics, physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.
• 1+ years of hands‑on experience with optical systems, laser systems, and optical laboratory environments.
• Due to contractual requirements, must be a U.S. Person defined as a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, green card holder, or worker granted asylum or refugee status.
• Due to national security requirements imposed by the U.S. Government, candidates for this position must not be a People's Republic of China national or Russian national unless the candidate is also a U.S. citizen.

We Value:

• Strong knowledge of optical and electrical laboratory equipment, including lasers, fiber optic components, acousto-optic and electro-optic modulators, precision optical instrumentation, and test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, phase noise analyzers, and frequency counters.
• Experience designing, integrating, aligning, and testing free-space and fiber-coupled optical or electro-optical systems, including optical subassemblies, fiber fusion splicing, optical fiber handling, and precision opto-mechanical assembly.
• Broad understanding of optical engineering principles, including optical frequency noise reduction, active optics, and closed-loop control techniques, with demonstrated application to complex engineering challenges.
• Experience using optical design and mechanical CAD software such as Zemax, SolidWorks, or equivalent tools.
• Experience creating and maintaining engineering documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), test plans, engineering change documentation, and configuration management records.
• Experience working from engineering drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, and assembly documentation.
• Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams and technicians to support research and development, prototype builds, manufacturing readiness, and continuous production improvements.
• Knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) and engineering change processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex optical and electro-optical systems.
• Knowledge of sustaining engineering, continuous improvement methodologies, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or 5S principles.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and technical documentation skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research and manufacturing environment.

Compensation & Benefits

The pay range for this role is $80,800 $101,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range may vary based on the candidate's skills, educational background, professional experience, and unique qualifications for the role.