Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer

Monarch Quantum•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Join Monarch’s fast-paced team as a Principal Photonics Systems Engineer. This hands-on role will help build the company’s engineering foundation as it scales. The successful candidate will work on advanced technologies, collaborate closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support the company’s mission and growth. The role provides technical leadership and system-level direction for advanced laser systems used in quantum technologies. It defines and guides development of photonics and control technologies, including laser stabilization, narrow-linewidth sources, and low-noise electronic control systems. The engineer will lead efforts to deliver ultra-low-noise performance and reliability through design, modeling, and experimental validation; collaborate with optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical engineers; and contribute to system requirements, specifications, and performance validation protocols. The position also mentors junior engineers, supports technical excellence and cross-functional collaboration, and contributes to technology roadmaps aligned with business goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field.
At least 8 years of experience designing and testing complex photonic or laser-based systems.
Demonstrated expertise in narrow-linewidth and frequency-stabilized laser systems.
Demonstrated expertise in low-noise electronic control and servo systems.
Demonstrated expertise in optical system modeling, alignment, and noise analysis.
Ability to design and deliver reliable photonic systems.
Strong communication skills and experience guiding technical decisions across teams.
Creative, flexible, comfortable wearing multiple hats, and able to work amid ambiguity and change.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.
Experience in quantum systems, precision metrology, or related emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership and system-level direction for the architecture, design, and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies.
Define and guide development of core photonics and control technologies, including laser stabilization, narrow-linewidth sources, and low-noise electronic control systems.
Lead design, modeling, and experimental validation efforts to achieve ultra-low-noise performance and exceptional reliability.
Collaborate with optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical engineers.
Provide technical expertise in developing and maintaining system-level requirements, specifications, and performance validation protocols.
Mentor junior engineers and foster technical excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.
Contribute to strategic technology roadmaps and work with leadership to align technical development with business goals.