Team Lead – Hardware Pre-Development (Quantum Sensing) (f/m/d)

Description:
At QuantumDiamonds, we turn quantum physics into real-world impact. As Team Lead for Hardware Pre-Development in Quantum Sensing, you will guide a multidisciplinary team of physicists and engineers in transforming early-stage research into robust, product-ready technologies.

Working at the intersection of optics, electronics, and sensing, you’ll drive the maturation of complex experimental systems into scalable architectures, while establishing agile workflows that enable rapid iteration. Collaborating closely with software, product, and system teams, your mission is to bridge research and engineering, align stakeholders, and build the technological foundation that powers our next generation of quantum sensing solutions.

Who we are:
Founded in 2022 as a spin-off of TU Munich, QD leverages quantum sensors to rapidly capture three-dimensional current maps within multi-layer chips. Our strong team of over 50 physicists, engineers, and data scientists works side by side with major semiconductor manufacturers, helping them in chip debugging and accelerating their yield analysis. Backed by top-tier deep tech investors, semiconductor experts, and strategic public programs, we have ensured long-term stability, shifting from breakthrough to scale - and shaping the next chapter in chip testing.

Why join us?:
Picture this:
• A machine that catches what others miss – in milliseconds.
• Physics, data, and engineering are working hand in hand to build tools that matter.
• An international team, who loves solving hard problems and where knowledge flows fast.

Still unsure about why joining us?
• You'll get to build a company together with a brilliant and welcoming team on a product that has never been done before.
• Our technology is the cutting edge of tomorrow, starting today and not in 10 years.
• You will work directly with major semiconductor companies from Day 1.
• You'll get virtual shares and act on behalf of the entire company, beyond just your own team.
• You’ll be part of a high-growth company backed by top-tier investors.

Let’s make the invisible visible!

What will you do:
• Lead the hardware pre-development team responsible for advancing quantum sensing technologies from early research prototypes to mature system architectures ready for product development.
• Define and drive the maturation of key sensing technologies across increasing technology readiness levels (TRL), ensuring smooth transfer into formal product development programmes.
• Architect and oversee the development of complex experimental platforms integrating light sources, optics, microwave electronics, magnet systems, sensing elements, and precision mechanics.
• Establish structured and transparent development workflows for experimental hardware and prototype systems.
• Apply agile development methodologies, including Scrum-inspired processes, to hardware development in order to enable fast iteration cycles and effective prioritisation.
• Coordinate closely with software teams responsible for system control, data acquisition, and signal processing.
• Collaborate with product development teams to ensure robust handover of mature technologies and validated subsystems.
• Mentor engineers and physicists within the team and foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Contribute to the long-term technical roadmap of QuantumDiamonds’ sensing platforms.

What is expected of you:
• PhD or MSc in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 7+ years of experience developing complex hardware systems or scientific instrumentation in an industry environment.
• Proven experience leading multidisciplinary engineering or R&D teams.
• Strong systems engineering mindset and experience integrating technologies across optics, electronics, sensing, and control systems.
• Experience maturing experimental systems into robust prototypes or product-ready architectures.
• Demonstrated experience applying Agile methodologies in hardware or experimental development environments, ideally including Scrum-based workflows.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to align physicists, engineers, and software developers around shared goals.
• Comfort working in fast-paced deep-tech environments where research and engineering intersect.
• (Nice to have) Experience with quantum sensing, advanced microscopy, semiconductor inspection systems, or precision measurement instrumentation.

Our benefits:
• Mission: At QD, we’re driven by more than just building great products – we aim to make a lasting difference. Joining us means contributing to meaningful work that goes beyond business as usual.
• Impact & growth: This is an exciting stage of our journey, and your voice matters. You’ll have the chance to shape our culture, influence key decisions, and grow alongside a company that’s scaling fast.
• Well-being & balance: We value rest and recovery. That’s why you’ll enjoy 30 vacation days plus public holidays to recharge and return inspired.
• Health & fitness: With a company-sponsored Wellpass membership, you’ll have access to countless gyms, classes, and wellness offers across Germany to stay healthy and active.
• Team & culture: We believe the best ideas come when we connect outside the office. From regular off-sites to team events, you’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Learning & development: Your growth is our priority. We provide an annual budget dedicated to courses, conferences, or any resources that help you expand your skills.
• Ownership & participation: As part of our equity programme, you’ll directly share in our success and the value we create together.