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