Photonics Engineer - Palo Alto - PSI Quantum

Description

Quantum computing holds the promise of humanity's mastery over the natural world, but only if we can build a real quantum computer. PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the first real, useful quantum computers, capable of delivering the world‑changing applications that the technology has long promised. We know that means we will need to build a system with roughly 1 million qubits that supports fault‑tolerant error correction within a scalable architecture and a data‑center footprint.

By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers can provide exponential performance increases over today's most powerful supercomputers, offering the potential for extraordinary advances across a broad range of industries including climate, energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and many more.

PsiQuantum has determined the fastest path to delivering a useful quantum computer years earlier than the rest of the industry. Our architecture is based on silicon photonics, which gives us the ability to produce our components at Tier‑1 semiconductor fabs such as GlobalFoundries, where we leverage high‑volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, the same processes that are already producing billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics applications. We also benefit from the fact that photons don't feel heat or electromagnetic interference, allowing us to take advantage of existing cryogenic cooling systems and industry‑standard fiber connectivity.

In 2024, PsiQuantum announced two government‑funded projects to support the build‑out of our first Quantum Data Centers and utility‑scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia and Chicago, Illinois. Both projects are backed by nations that understand quantum computing's potential impact and the need to scale this technology to unlock that potential. And we won't just be building the hardware, but also the fault‑tolerant quantum applications that will provide industry‑transforming results.

Quantum computing is not just an evolution of the decades‑old advancement in compute power. It provides the key to mastering our future, not merely discovering it. The potential is enormous, and we have the plan to make it real. Come join us.

There's much more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey

Job Summary

We're seeking an optical design expert who excels at translating complex device physics into clear, actionable technical reports and cross‑team collaboration. This role is part of PsiQuantum's photonic circuits team, where you'll work on the photonic ICs that serve as the physical heart of our quantum computing systems. You'll take ownership of analyzing test data from thermal phase shifters across multiple silicon processes, generating comprehensive technical documentation, and serving as a key technical communicator between our design team and the broader organization. This role is designed as hybrid, with regular in‑person collaboration at one of our offices in Palo Alto, CA, Milpitas, CA, or Arlington, VA, plus the flexibility to work from home 2‑3 days per week.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to translate complex thermo‑optical device behavior into actionable insights for product development and design optimization decisions.
• Support design iteration and improvement by identifying performance trends, failure modes, and optimization opportunities from device characterization data.
• Analyze test data from thermo‑optical devices and generate comprehensive technical reports summarizing device performance, behavior, and key figures of merit.
• Create and maintain technical documentation for thermo‑optical devices, ensuring clear communication across diverse technical audiences.
• Participate in technical discussions with layout engineers, foundry teams, and systems integration groups to ensure seamless handoff of design requirements and performance specifications.

Experience / Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field with 1‑4 years of industry experience.
• Strong expertise in thermo‑optical design principles, thermal phase shifters, and integrated photonic circuits.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis and technical reporting, preferably using Python programming and Git/GitLab for version control.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills, with ability to explain complex device physics concepts to diverse technical audiences.
• Experience working with silicon photonics processes and understanding device physics from design files and process documentation.
• Basic understanding of electrical design principles, particularly Joule heating mechanisms in resistive elements.
• Preferred: Awareness of mechanical design considerations, stress/strain analysis, or experience with suspended micro‑scale structures.
• Thrives in fast‑paced startup environments and enjoys cross‑functional collaboration and problem‑solving.

Equal Employment Opportunity

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

Recruiting Note

Note: PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

Compensation

U.S. Base Pay Range: $130,000 — $145,000 USD

Bay Area Pay Range: $150,000 — $170,000 USD

Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full‑time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.