Staff Scientist - Quantum

Vector Atomic • Pleasanton, CA

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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 across development stages, from concept through deployment, including prototyping, sensor integration, performance analysis, and field demonstrations.

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, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or qualifying refugee or asylee.
• 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 systems; narrow-linewidth lasers and laser-frequency stabilization; optics, fiber optics, electro-optics/acousto-optics, and 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 sensor 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.
• Employer 401(k) contributions.
• 20 days of paid time off and 11 paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Fully stocked kitchen.
• Competitive compensation, including bonus and equity as part of the total compensation package.

What This Job Offers

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