PIC Laser & Nonlinear Photonics Staff Engineer (Experimental)

About the Team

Infleqtion is commercializing quantum technology-building deployable systems where photonics is the engine for performance, scale, and reliability. Our photonics team develops photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and related optical subsystems that enable chip-scale laser sources, modulation, routing, and control for next-generation quantum products. We work closely with quantum system teams, and external foundry/assembly partners to turn ambitious optical performance targets into manufacturable hardware.

About the Role

Infleqtion is seeking a Senior Laser & Nonlinear Photonics Engineer to lead and execute system-level photonics experiments, with a focus on laser sources and/or nonlinear optics modules (e.g., frequency conversion, parametric processes, comb generation), and their integration into larger photonic and quantum subsystems.

In this role, you will take end-to-end ownership of experimental development: architecture trades, optical design, hands-on build, stabilization/control, measurement automation, performance characterization, and iteration toward reliable prototypes.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys working in a small, dynamic team environment, and has a passion for solving challenging problems that lead to high-impact technological advances.

How you will drive impact

• Architect, build, and validate laser and nonlinear photonics subsystems that meet demanding specs (linewidth, frequency noise, RIN, power, stability, efficiency, SWaP, reliability).
• Develop and run system-level experiments: optical bench builds, fiber-based architectures, free-space coupling, high-speed modulation, and precision frequency control.
• Implement stabilization and control: frequency locks, servo design, modulation/demodulation schemes, and long-term drift mitigation.
• Create robust measurement pipelines (automation, calibration, data analysis) to accelerate iteration and improve reproducibility.
• Translate experimental learnings into engineering requirements for packaging, manufacturability, and productization; collaborate closely with PIC designers, electronics, packaging, and manufacturing partners.

Requirements

What you should have

• U.S. Person status (required).
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• [5]+ years of hands-on experience building and characterizing laser systems and/or nonlinear photonics experiments with demonstrated outcomes (prototypes delivered, performance records, or deployed systems).
• Deep practical experience with optical instrumentation and lab execution (OSA, ESA, RF sources, high-speed photodiodes, wavemeters, interferometers, power meters, polarization control, low-noise detection).
• Experience measuring and improving laser performance metrics (e.g., linewidth estimation, frequency noise/phase noise, RIN, drift, mode hops) and diagnosing failure modes.
• Comfort designing experiments that mix optics + RF + controls (AOM/EOM modulation, photodetection, servo loops, timing/synchronization).
• Strong documentation and communication skills; ability to drive cross-functional alignment and make clear technical tradeoffs.

It would be great if you also had these

• Nonlinear optics/photonics experience in one or more of: SHG/SFG/DFG, OPO/OPG, PPLN/PPLT (bulk or waveguide), microresonator/Kerr combs, supercontinuum, or parametric amplification.
• Experience with narrow-linewidth diode lasers, fiber lasers, solid-state lasers, external-cavity designs, and/or integrated/hybrid laser architectures.
• Familiarity with photonic integration constraints and how system requirements map into PIC designs (thermal sensitivity, coupling losses, reflections, backscatter, isolation).Experience transitioning lab builds toward ruggedized/packaged systems (alignment tolerancing, thermal design, vibration sensitivity, reliability test plans).
• Scientific programming for automation/analysis (Python, LabVIEW) and version control best practices.
• [Optional if relevant] Experience in atomic/quantum physics experiments (laser cooling, spectroscopy, frequency references) or similar precision photonics domains.

Export Control / U.S. Person Requirement

This position involves access to export-controlled information and/or technology. To comply with U.S. Export Control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee).

Benefits

• Salary range: $140k to 190k/ per year
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, short/long-term disability
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account
• Unlimited PTO
• 401(k) match
• Company-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Flexible Savings Account
• Paid FMLA, Maternity/Paternity Leave
• Relocation Assistance