Lab & Safety Manager

Job Description

Job Description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join an incredible team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state of the art in quantum technologies that will transform computing performance.

The Lab & Safety Manager oversees the daily operations of a high-performance physics research facility, ensuring a safe, organized, and efficient environment. This role is the operational backbone of the laboratory bridging the gap between technical research needs and administrative excellence.

The Lab & Safety Manager will be a proactive, detail-driven professional with deep experience in Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), regulatory compliance, sophisticated procurement, and meticulous inventory and facility management. They will partner closely with quantum and optical engineers to maintain a facility that meets the highest standards of safety and reliability.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all EHS matters, ensuring full compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain safety protocols, lab safety manual, SOPs, hazard assessments, and emergency response procedures.
• Conduct regular safety audits, inspections, and incident investigations; track corrective actions to completion.
• Oversee training programs for laboratory personnel, including onboarding, annual refreshers, and specialized safety certifications.
• Manage chemical hygiene, laser safety coordination, waste disposal, and environmental monitoring programs and ensure personnel are trained accordingly.
• Maintain accurate documentation for regulatory bodies (OSHA, EPA, etc.) and support external audits.

• Lead all aspects of laboratory inventory, including chemicals, optical components, tools, and gas cylinders.
• Coordinate space planning, lab layout optimization, and infrastructure upgrades in collaboration with engineers and facilities teams.
• Organize laboratory workspaces to optimize workflow and ensure a professional, clutter-free environment.
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and handling of hazardous materials and controlled substances.
• Negotiate with vendors to secure competitive pricing and manage service contracts for high value equipment
• Coordinate the arrival and installation of large-scale capital equipment.
• Oversee the maintenance and calibration schedules for sensitive analytical instruments.
• Liaise with facilities management for utility repairs (HVAC, specialized power, chilled water).
• Maintain inventory and ordering of consumables PPE for cleanrooms (hairnets, gowns, gloves etc…) 

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering, or a related field, advanced degree a plus
• Specialized certifications (e.g., CHO, CSP, CIH), a plus
• 5+ years of hands-on experience working in a professional physics research laboratory

• Experience in high-performance physics, engineering, or advanced instrumentation environments.
• Familiarity with cryogenics, vacuum systems, lasers, or other complex research equipment.
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities
• Excellent communication skills 
• Ability to handle sensitive equipment with precision and care.

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 $125,000 - $165,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.