Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

At Infleqtion we solve the world’s most challenging problems using cutting-edge quantum technology. Our mission is to commercialize atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in sensing and computing applications. We are proud to work tirelessly to create and lead the quantum ecosystem towards meaningful advancements today and set the technology roadmap for tomorrow.

POSITION SUMMARY

Within Infleqtion’s Quantum Computing Product Group, the Hardware Engineering Team seeks a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer as a senior designer responsible for the realization of precision opto-mechanical subsystems that underpin scalable, high-performance quantum hardware.

The successful candidate will act as a technical authority for complex opto-mechanical, module-level decisions while working closely with physicists and cross-disciplinary engineering teams to translate experimental requirements into robust, high-performance optical hardware that supports future scaling paths. This role requires deep technical design and laboratory contributions.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Typically, you will be entrusted with:

• Owning opto-mechanical subsystems within an established hardware architecture and identifying technical risks, trade-offs, and long-term scalability constraints.
• Executing on defined mechanical design and integration of precision components and assemblies supporting lasers, optics, vacuum-integrated components, state-of-the-art sensors (SPAD, EMCCD, sCMOS), high-speed photodetectors, DMDs, SLMs, AODs, EOMs, metasurface-based optics, and photonic integrated circuits (PICs).
• Using emerging optical technologies from academia and industry and contributing to their physical implementation within Infleqtion’s next-generation neutral-atom quantum computing architectures.
• Generating stability, tolerance, and error budgets for opto-mechanical systems to ensure performance across environmental and operational conditions.
• Collaborating closely with physicists and optical, mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers to support the full experimental and hardware development lifecycle, from early research demonstrations through integrated, scalable, multi-generation systems.
• Advancing design-for-manufacturing and design-for-assembly considerations early in the product lifecycle using data-driven methodologies, including model-based and hands-on root-cause investigations, corrective actions, and improved design and laboratory practices.
• Using high-fidelity opto-mechanical simulations and executing on experimental strategies to characterize optical stability, drift, noise sources, and scaling limits, ranging from back-of-the-envelope calculations to detailed finite element analysis (FEA) encompassing tolerance stack-ups, thermal behavior, structural stiffness, and vibration sensitivity.
• Providing technical leadership and mentorship support to developing opto-mechanical engineers through design reviews and hands-on coaching.
• Supporting the transition of opto-mechanical subsystems from research-grade configurations to repeatable, maintainable, and scalable hardware suitable for increased atom counts.
• Advancing current best practices for optical design workflows, laboratory procedures, documentation, and version control.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field with at least 5 years of relevant industry experience. A Master’s degree or PhD may substitute for some experience.
• Extensive ownership-driven experience designing, modeling, and validating laser-based opto-mechanical systems for high-performance hardware backed by a strong hands-on laboratory track record.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks for complex scalable system design and analysis.
• Working knowledge of Zemax (OpticsStudio) sufficient to collaborate on optical layouts and component selection validation.

WE HIGHLY VALUE:

• Background in atomic physics, quantum optics, or photonics research environments.
• Experience in low-volume, high-complexity hardware programs with demanding performance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to bridge physics and engineering perspectives.
• A hands-on, detail-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and technical accountability.
• Positive, collaborative working style and enthusiasm for mentoring and developing engineers.

NOTE

• Job responsibilities and requirements are illustrative, other responsibilities may be assigned as needed.
• This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

TRAVEL

Up to 10% travel may be required.

WORKING CONDITIONS and PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers. Able to sit, stand, bend, lift and carry up to 40 pounds without assistance. Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person). Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements.

Benefits

• Salary range: $150,000 to $170,000 per year
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, short/long-term disability
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account
• Unlimited PTO
• 401(k) match
• Company-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Flexible Savings Account
• Paid FMLA, Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Student Loan Repayment 
• Equity Package