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Senior Optical Engineer

Atom Computing
Boulder, CO Posted Sep 24, 2026
Full-timeOn-site

About this role

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and assembly.

This position reports to the Optical Engineering Manager and requires on-site work at our Boulder, CO facility five days per week.

Job Responsibilities

  • Lead cross-functional partnerships with mechanical engineers and physicists to iteratively design optical subsystems in the areas of laser distribution, high numerical aperture microscope imaging, and optical cavities

  • Define system architecture and make critical strategic decisions for balancing competing requirements.

  • Create novel designs and specifications of optical systems and subsystems from the component level up to the system level

  • Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance and stray light analysis

  • Develop alignment procedures for optical designs

  • Lead hands-on assembly and precision alignment of finalized optical designs

  • Characterize the performance of optical subsystems

  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.

Experience & Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering or related field. Advanced degree a plus

  • 5+ years optical design experience

  • 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment

Qualifications

  • Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems

  • Proficiency with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software

  • Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software

  • Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently.

  • High attention-to-detail and accuracy

  • Creative, critical thinking with ability to strategize and solve problems in a dynamic environment

  • Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment

  • Excellent communication, listening and people skills

  • 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 $150,000 - $180,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.

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