Principal System Integration and Test Lead

@ Atom Computing
Atom Computingatomcomputing.com

Principal System Integration and Test Lead

Boulder, CO
Posted 2 weeks ago

About the job

Atom Computing builds quantum computers using neutral atoms, enabling breakthroughs in quantum technology. The role focuses on whole-system integration, optical alignment, and working with quantum engineers in a collaborative, innovative environment.

Requirements

  • Deep AMO physics knowledge
  • Optical alignment skills
  • Quantum hardware experience
  • Strong troubleshooting abilities
  • Leadership in technical teams

Qualifications

  • PhD or equivalent experience
  • 10+ years in physics or optics
  • 3+ years leadership experience
  • Practical laser and vacuum skills
  • Ability to interpret diagnostic data

Full job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms. Our systems will give customers access to computational breakthroughs that were out of reach until now. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals advancing the state of the art in quantum computing.

We are seeking a Principal System Integration & Test Lead with deep atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics and quantum-computing knowledge. You will be the technical authority for whole-system integration: taking complete neutral-atom quantum computers from assembled subsystems to atom-ready machines, then handing each one to our Quantum Engineers (QEs) for testing with atoms. This is a hands-on technical leadership role reporting directly to the VP of Manufacturing.


Responsibilities

  • Own whole-system integration across optics, laser delivery, vacuum interfaces, radio-frequency (RF) controls, timing, and instrument software for neutral-atom quantum computers.
  • Apply AMO knowledge to define hardware-readiness checks. Agree integration, alignment, and handoff criteria with QEs and Systems Engineering.
  • Work alongside QEs on first-of-a-kind systems to establish repeatable integration sequences, alignment methods, diagnostics, and recovery procedures.
  • Perform and guide system-level optical alignment, laser-delivery checks, controls checkout, and applicable safety checks before atom-based verification begins.
  • Mentor and train integration engineers and technicians. Define the qualification path for new team members, and advise leadership on staffing and on scheduling shared instruments across concurrent builds.
  • Lead cross-subsystem troubleshooting. Work with laser, controls, subsystem, and QE specialists to resolve hardware and interface problems.
  • Support hardware corrections during QE testing. Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to reduce alignment rework and shorten repeat-build cycle time.

    • Experience & Education

  • PhD in physics, applied physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline, or comparable professional experience.
  • 10+ years of experience in experimental AMO physics, quantum hardware, or precision laser-system integration.
  • 3+ years providing technical leadership on multidisciplinary teams, with demonstrated responsibility for integration readiness, complex fault isolation, and laboratory execution.

    • Qualifications

  • Strong understanding of neutral-atom quantum computers, including atom trapping, optical addressing, coherent control, and readout.
  • Hands-on capability in optical alignment, laser stability diagnostics, vacuum interfaces, and synchronized RF and control systems.
  • Practical AMO knowledge, including laser-atom interactions and laser cooling and trapping, sufficient to resolve integration issues directly with experimental physicists.
  • Ability to interpret diagnostic data, evaluate automated checkout methods, and isolate hardware or software-interface faults. Laboratory automation experience is preferred.
  • Proven technical leadership and readiness-review discipline, with a record of mentoring colleagues toward qualification while preserving the separate QE acceptance gate.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.


    • 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, unlimited paid time off, 401K 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 $200,000 - $230,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.


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