Manufacturing Engineering Tech (Assembly)

Job Description Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. We are looking for a  Manufacturing Engineer to play a critical role in transitioning our quantum optical clock systems from prototype to scalable production. You will own key portions of the manufacturing process for highly sensitive photonic and opto-mechanical assemblies, with a strong emphasis on automation, repeatability, and yield.
This is a highly cross-functional, hands-on role where you will work closely with physicists, optical engineers, and hardware teams to help turn cutting-edge lab systems into robust, manufacturable products.

Develop and scale manufacturing processes for quantum photonics systems, including lasers, fiber assemblies, and precision opto-mechanical subsystems
Design and implement automated assembly, test, and inspection processes for high-precision optical systems.
Drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) in collaboration with R&D and physics teams
Lead new product introduction (NPI), transitioning lab prototypes into repeatable production builds
Build and maintain production tooling, fixtures, and automated test platforms
Identify and reduce process variability in critical optical alignment and packaging steps.
Implement data-driven process control (SPC) and continuous improvement methodologies
Troubleshoot complex integration issues spanning optics, electronics, vacuum systems, and controls
Evaluate and qualify vendors for precision components and subassemblies, in collaboration with engineering and operations.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field

• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering or hardware development in a deep-tech environment (photonics, quantum, semiconductors, aerospace, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with precision assembly, including optics, fiber alignment, micro-mechanical systems, and UV-curable epoxies or precision bonding processes.
• Experience developing or deploying process automation (robotics, motion stages, machine vision, or automated test systems)
• Strong debugging and root cause analysis skills in complex physical systems
• S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.

Programming experience (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or similar) for automation and test
Background in scaling low-volume prototypes to early production
Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)

• Health and Dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidays
• Fully stocked kitchen

The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.