Senior Quantum Physicist (Quantum Computing)

Infleqtion•Chicago, IL

2d•$165,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Infleqtion is commercializing atom-based quantum technologies for sensing and computing. The Senior Quantum Physicist will help advance the company’s Quantum Computing mission by developing and operating neutral-atom quantum computing systems. The role is suited to experimental physicists with AMO expertise and experience in coherent control of quantum systems, including ultracold atoms, trapped ions, or diamond NV centers. The position involves leading research and development projects across quantum processor hardware, quantum-gate protocols, laser and optical systems, calibration, control, and system integration. The physicist will translate program goals into technical requirements and experimental plans, use experiments and physics-based models to guide decisions, and independently own critical systems from development and validation through troubleshooting, reliability improvement, and routine operation. The role also includes developing Python-based tools and collaborating across technical teams, while mentoring junior team members and interns. Work is normally performed in an office and laboratory environment around technical equipment, including computers and lasers. Travel of up to 10% may be required. The position may require access to technology controlled under U.S. export laws; employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive that technology without sponsorship for an export license.

Requirements

PhD in atomic, optical, AMO, quantum physics, or a related field plus at least two years of relevant post-PhD experience, or comparable professional experience developing complex experimental systems.
Hands-on experience designing, building, and operating complex AMO, quantum-control, or precision-measurement experiments.
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 independently leading a substantial experimental project or owning a critical technical subsystem.

Nice To Haves

Experience with neutral-atom quantum computing, Rydberg physics, optical-tweezer arrays, or quantum-gate characterization.
Experience with advanced laser systems, optical beam delivery, high-NA imaging, beam shaping, or optical projection.
Experience characterizing and mitigating laser-frequency, phase, pointing, or intensity noise.
Experience with analog electronics, RF systems, or feedback control.
Experience integrating optical, electronic, vacuum, control, and software subsystems.
Experience developing automated calibration, health-monitoring, or experimental test infrastructure.
Familiarity with Linux, Git, command-line tools, and collaborative software-development practices.

Responsibilities

Design, integrate, calibrate, operate, and improve neutral-atom quantum computing systems and critical subsystems.
Lead R&D projects involving quantum processor hardware, quantum-gate protocols, laser and optical systems, calibration, control, or system integration.
Translate program goals into technical requirements, experimental plans, and measurable performance targets.
Design and analyze experiments and physics-based models to identify performance limitations and guide technical decisions.
Independently own critical systems through development, validation, troubleshooting, reliability improvement, and routine operation.
Develop Python-based tools for experiment control, data analysis, calibration, automation, and hardware integration.
Collaborate across physics, software, electrical, mechanical, and systems-engineering teams.
Mentor junior team members and interns and contribute to technical reviews and team best practices.