Quantum Physicist (Quantum Computing)

Infleqtion•Chicago, IL

19h•$135,000 - $170,000

About The Position

Infleqtion is seeking a self-motivated, technically skilled Quantum Physicist to support its mission of commercializing atom-based quantum technologies. The role focuses on developing neutral-atom quantum computing systems and subsystems, including experimental research and development in quantum processor hardware, quantum-gate protocols, laser and optical systems, calibration, control, and system integration. The physicist translates technical goals into experimental plans, subsystem requirements, and measurable performance targets; designs and analyzes experiments and physics-based models; and independently carries technical work from planning through implementation and validation. The role also develops Python-based tools and owns assigned subsystems through testing, troubleshooting, maintenance, documentation, and routine operation. Collaboration with physics, software, electrical, mechanical, and systems-engineering teams is expected, along with technical guidance to junior team members and supervision of interns as appropriate. Work is normally performed in an office and laboratory environment around technical equipment, including computers and lasers. Up to 10% travel may be required. The position may involve access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations; an employment offer may be conditioned on authorization to receive controlled software or technology without sponsorship for an export license.

Requirements

PhD in atomic, optical, AMO, quantum physics, or a related field, or at least four years of comparable research or professional experience.
Hands-on experience conducting experiments involving atomic, optical, quantum, or precision-measurement systems.
Experience applying quantitative atomic or optical physics models to experimental design or to the specification of laser, optical, RF, or control systems.
Hands-on experience with lasers and optical systems, together with related technologies such as acousto-optic or electro-optic modulators, RF instrumentation, imaging systems, or ultra-high-vacuum equipment.
Experience using Python for experiment control, data analysis, automation, or hardware integration.
Evidence of designing and analyzing physics experiments or developing an experimental subsystem.
Ability to use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers, and to communicate effectively by phone, computer, or in person.
Any required Personal Protective Equipment must be used properly in accordance with company requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience with neutral atoms, trapped ions, Rydberg physics, optical tweezers, quantum-gate protocols, or another coherent-control platform.
Experience with high-power or short-wavelength lasers and optical power-delivery systems.
Experience characterizing or mitigating laser-frequency, phase, pointing, or intensity noise.
Experience with analog electronics, RF systems, or feedback control.
Experience with high-numerical-aperture imaging, beam shaping, or optical projection.
Experience integrating optical, electronic, vacuum, control, and software subsystems.
Familiarity with Linux, Git, command-line tools, and collaborative software-development practices.

Responsibilities

Design, build, calibrate, operate, and improve neutral-atom quantum computing systems and subsystems.
Execute R&D projects involving quantum processor hardware, quantum-gate protocols, laser and optical systems, calibration, control, or system integration.
Translate defined technical goals into experimental plans, subsystem requirements, and measurable performance targets.
Design and analyze experiments and physics-based models to understand system behavior and guide technical decisions.
Independently execute well-defined technical work from planning through implementation and validation.
Develop Python-based tools for experiment control, data analysis, calibration, automation, and hardware integration.
Own assigned subsystems through testing, troubleshooting, maintenance, documentation, and routine operation.
Collaborate with physics, software, electrical, mechanical, and systems-engineering teams.
Provide technical guidance to junior team members and supervise interns as appropriate.