Staff Scientist - Quantum

Vector Atomic•Pleasanton, CA
•$150,000 - $180,000

About The Position

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is hiring an Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physicist to help build ultraprecise quantum devices for autonomous navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This hands-on role contributes to the full development lifecycle, from concept through deployment, including prototyping and designing optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems; integrating, bringing up, and optimizing sensors; analyzing data and sensor performance; and deploying and demonstrating prototype sensors in real-world environments.

Requirements

  • PhD in atomic, optical, or quantum physics, or 8–12 years of related academic or industry experience.
  • Must meet U.S. export-control eligibility requirements: be a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent resident (green card holder), or fall within certain categories of refugees or asylees.
  • 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, and/or vapor cells; laser cooling and trapping; precision spectroscopy; ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems; narrow-linewidth lasers and laser frequency stabilization; optics, fiber optics, electro/acousto-optics, and detectors; analog, digital, and RF electronics; control systems and instrumentation; and 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 health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
  • 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.
  • Total compensation package includes base salary, bonus, equity, and benefits.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Senior

Education Level

Ph.D. or professional degree

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