Senior Optical Engineer

Atom Computing

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Boulder, CO on site Until 8/23/2026 5+ years exp H-1B sponsor history First posted June 24, 2026 Last posted June 24, 2026
Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and assembly. 

Job Responsibilities

  • Lead cross-functional partnerships with mechanical engineers and physicists to iteratively design optical subsystems in the areas of laser distribution, high numerical aperture microscope imaging, and optical cavities
  • Define system architecture and make critical strategic decisions for balancing competing requirements.
  • Create novel designs and specifications of optical systems and subsystems from the component level up to the system level
  • Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance and stray light analysis
  • Develop alignment procedures for optical designs
  • Lead hands-on assembly and precision alignment of finalized optical designs
  • Characterize the performance of optical subsystems
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.

Experience & Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering or related field. Advanced degree a plus
  • 5-8+ years optical design experience
  • 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment

Qualifications

  • Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
  • Proficiency with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
  • Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
  • Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently.
  • High attention-to-detail and accuracy
  • Creative, critical thinking with ability to strategize and solve problems in a dynamic environment
  • Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment
  • Excellent communication, listening and people skills

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.  We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $150,000 - $175,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company. 

About this role

Summary

Lead optical subsystem design, assembly, and performance characterization in quantum computing.

Job title

Senior Optical Engineer

Experience level

5+ years

Minimum experience

5+ years exp

Industry

software

Location requirements

On-site in Boulder, CO, with possibility of remote work

Salary

$150k–$175k

Visa sponsorship

H-1B sponsor history

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

optical designray-tracing softwareCAD softwareproject managementattention to detail

Preferred skills

high-numerical-aperture imagingstray light analysiscollaborative environmentcommunication

Specializations

optical designlaserimagingalignmentCAD
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Boulder, CO, USA

On-site City