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.
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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.
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$200,000 - $230,000 a year
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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.
QUANTUM ROLE CONTEXT | Appended by Quantum.Jobs v2
Role context:
System integration leadership roles exist to bridge hardware assembly and experimental operational testing within complex technical production pipelines. Positioned between subsystem manufacturing and operational validation teams, this function serves as a critical technical gatekeeper. It ensures that disparate optical, electronic, mechanical, and control subassemblies are physically integrated and calibrated into a unified, functional system. By establishing rigorous verification standards and handoff protocols, professionals in this capacity standardize assembly procedures and streamline overall hardware delivery workflows.
Quantum ecosystem relevance:
This role supports the quantum computing sector by transitioning raw physical apparatus into operational quantum hardware platforms. As quantum systems move from laboratory concepts toward scalable production, structured integration methodologies become essential for maintaining system stability and performance consistency. Occupying a vital position in hardware engineering operations, the function facilitates the transition of complex optical and physical subassemblies into standardized units. This operational bridge accelerates hardware validation cycles and strengthens the foundation for commercial technology deployment.
Capability signals:
- Mastery of atomic physics principles and advanced precision optical system alignment techniques
- Expertise in integrating complex vacuum, laser delivery, and electronic control subassemblies
- Technical leadership in cross-functional system troubleshooting and laboratory operational execution
- Experience establishing repeatable hardware qualification sequences and diagnostic verification protocols
- Proficiency in managing technical handoff gates between manufacturing and testing teams
