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Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

... or nonlinear optics) * Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex ... Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

... or nonlinear optics) * Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex ... Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO

$160K - $185K/yr

... or nonlinear optics) * Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex ... Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics

All JobsPostdoctoral Nonlinear Optic JobsPostdoctoral Nonlinear Optic Jobs in Colorado

Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic information

What is a postdoctoral nonlinear optic researcher?

Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optics researchers are scientists who have recently earned their PhD and are conducting advanced research in the field of nonlinear optics. Nonlinear optics studies how intense light interacts with materials, leading to phenomena like frequency doubling and optical switching. These researchers typically work in academic or industrial labs, collaborating on projects involving lasers, photonics, and new optical materials. Their work helps to advance technology in areas such as telecommunications, medical imaging, and quantum computing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral nonlinear optic researcher?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optics researcher, you need a Ph.D. in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field with a strong background in optics, photonics, and nonlinear optical phenomena. Experience with simulation tools (such as COMSOL or Lumerical), advanced laser systems, and experimental setups is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective scientific communication are crucial soft skills for advancing research and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, publishing impactful results, and contributing to cutting-edge developments in nonlinear optics.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral nonlinear optic researchers, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers in nonlinear optics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving research, managing complex experimental setups, and balancing independent work with collaborative projects. Staying current requires regularly reading the latest literature and attending conferences. Troubleshooting intricate optical experiments can be demanding, so strong problem-solving skills and meticulous documentation are essential. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as physicists, engineers, and material scientists—also requires effective communication and flexibility to align research goals.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic jobs in Colorado?

For Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic jobs in Colorado are:

Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Nonlinear Optic job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Optical Physicist

Atom Computing

Boulder, CO • On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

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 Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical devices with fundamentally new modes of operation. Working with a talented team of engineers, you will rigorously qualify these devices and integrate them into state-of-the-art quantum computers.
 
This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or cold atom physics is not required.
Responsibilities
  • Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental validation to translate novel optical concepts into deployable hardware for scaling quantum processors.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experimental physicists, quantum theorists, optical engineers, and hardware and software engineers to integrate new technologies into our quantum computers.
  • Analyze experimental findings and communicate insights to guide hardware design.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong focus on experimental optics
  • Deep theoretical and experimental mastery of advanced optical physics (e.g., optical cavities, frequency combs, optical modulators, or nonlinear optics)
  • Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex experimental optical setups from first principles
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers
Preferred Qualifications
  • Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics
  • Proficiency with Python and Git for experimental automation, control, and data analysis
  • Experience working in a fast-paced hardware development or start-up environment

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, we offer unlimited paid time off, 401(k) 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 an annual bonus and incentive stock options for equity in the company.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.