Lead Laser Systems Engineer

We are seeking a highly qualified Lead Laser Systems Engineer for our Broomfield, CO location, to join the team developing a next-generation quantum computer. The ideal candidate will be a systems engineering professional with a background in laser technology, responsible for guiding the laser and beamline subsystem through its entire lifecycle. The role will serve as the systems engineering interface between the system-level design and architecture team and laser and beamline development teams (both internal and externally‑contracted).

Responsibilities will include subsystem requirements management, interface definition, verification and validation planning, creation and management of engineering documentation, and change management. Candidates should expect to be immersed in a fast‑paced, team‑based, challenging technical environment where an individual with talent and initiative can stand out and thrive.

• Systems engineer for lasers subsystem of a trapped‑ion quantum computer based on a quantum charge coupled device architecture. The subsystem includes laser sources, control electronics, servos, modulators, and frequency doubling components.
• Develop, define, and manage subsystem requirements, specifications, and engineering documentation, focusing on right‑size solutions appropriate for technology maturity.
• Act as consultant to laser and beamline contractors and internal teams as they derive detailed subassembly requirements from higher‑level requirements, ensuring they are understood, compatible, and well‑formed.
• Develop, publish, and maintain system engineering artifacts for subsystem verification and validation, including risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
• Document the laser and beamline subsystem’s interfaces and interactions with other elements of the quantum computing system.
• Ensure gate review entry criteria are complete, updated, and accessible; organize and hold gate reviews for internally designed subassemblies.
• Guide technical decisions throughout the product lifecycle, including design, implementation, test, integration, and on‑time delivery of laser subsystems.
• Communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders, ensuring clear understanding and buy‑in.
• Mentor junior engineers.

• Bachelor’s degree minimum.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience (or 6+ years with a master’s, or 5+ years with a PhD).
• Minimum 6+ years of laser system hardware design, integration, and product development experience, including fiber optic components, electro‑optic and acousto‑optic modulators, and noise‑reduction servos.
• Minimum 2+ years of systems engineering experience.
• U.S. Person status (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, green card holder, or granted asylum/refugee status).
• Should not be a People’s Republic of China or Russian national without U.S. citizenship due to national security requirements.

• Master’s Degree/Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering or related technical field preferred.
• Proven experience in system engineering or architecture of highly complex laser systems.
• Experience deconstructing complex systems into clear, comprehensible components and work packages.
• Strong background in requirements engineering, system verification, and validation processes.
• Familiarity with Model Based System Engineering (MBSE).
• Prior experience with laser‑cooled, neutral atom, or atomic ion scientific apparatus or quantum computers.
• Proficiency in system modeling, simulations, and analysis tools.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships and effectively partner with internal team members and external contractors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Incentive‑eligible range: $148,000 – $186,000 annually. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, education, experience, and unique qualifications.

What is in it for you?

• Competitive salary and innovative, game‑changing work.
• Flexible work schedule.
• Employer‑subsidized health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) match and student loan repayment benefit.
• Equity and 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time.
• Paid parental leave.
• Employee discounts.

Quantinuum is an equal opportunity employer. You will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status. Know Your Rights:
Workplace discrimination is illegal.