Senior Staff Scientist - Quantum

Vector Atomic • Pleasanton, CA

1d

About The Position

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is hiring a Senior Staff Scientist to help develop ultraprecise quantum devices for autonomous navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This hands-on role contributes across the development lifecycle, from concept through deployment, including prototype design, sensor integration, performance analysis, and real-world demonstrations.

IonQ describes itself as a quantum platform and merchant supplier delivering solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. Vector Atomic develops quantum technology for navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications, in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• PhD in atomic, optical, or quantum physics, or at least 12 years of related academic or industry experience.
• Must meet applicable U.S. export-control eligibility requirements: U.S. citizenship, lawful U.S. permanent residency, or certain refugee or asylee categories.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both verbally and in writing.
• Hands-on expertise with several of the following: atomic clocks and inertial sensors; atomic ovens, beams, or vapor cells; laser cooling and trapping; precision spectroscopy; ultra-high-vacuum systems; narrow-linewidth lasers and laser frequency stabilization; optics, fiber optics, electro-optics, acousto-optics, or detectors; analog, digital, and RF electronics; control systems and instrumentation; mechanical design.

Responsibilities

• Prototype and design optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems.
• Integrate, bring up, and optimize sensors, and analyze data.
• Analyze and simulate atomic sensor performance and environmental sensitivities.
• Deploy and demonstrate prototype sensors in real-world environments.

Benefits

• Platinum-level family medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer 401(k) contributions
• 20 days of paid time off and 11 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Fully stocked kitchen

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree