Senior Optical Engineer
Boston, MA (Full Time On-Site)
A leading quantum computing organisation is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to play a key role in the development of advanced, scalable quantum hardware systems. This position sits within a high-impact hardware engineering team responsible for translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world, deployable products.
This is an opportunity for an experienced engineer to contribute as a senior individual contributor, combining deep technical expertise in optics with practical engineering experience in an industry environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with physicists and cross-functional teams to define requirements and architect optical systems, subsystems, and components across the full product lifecycle (R&D through to deployment and support).
- Design and develop advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for quantum computing platforms.
- Drive continuous improvement and innovation in engineering practices through research and problem-solving.
- Partner closely with research teams to translate scientific advances into scalable product solutions.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues both on-site and at customer installations.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in optics, optical engineering, applied physics, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
- 5–8 years of experience designing optical or opto-mechanical systems in an industry or applied research environment (e.g. industry, national lab, or similar).
- Strong system-level design experience, including tools such as Zemax, COMSOL, and CAD.
- Deep expertise across several of the following areas:
- Free-space and fibre optics
- Lasers and modulators
- Electronics
- Optical system characterisation and testing
- Ultra-high vacuum systems
- Strong hands-on laboratory experience (assembly, alignment, testing, etc.).
- Proven experience developing complex optical systems from concept through to production.
- Ability to operate independently as a senior-level engineer within a multidisciplinary team.
