Staff Fiber Optics System Engineer

Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. It represents a fundamental shift—and a path to mastering challenges that cannot be solved any other way. The potential is enormous, and we have a clear path to make it real.

Job Summary:

The Staff Fiber Optics System Engineer reports into the System Design organization. This role supports the Optical Distribution Network (ODN) design and integration for current and future systems. This includes the design, development, integration and validation of the fiber network and hardware to support the complex fiber network needed in our quantum systems.

Responsibilities:

• Support end-to-end system fiber link architecture connecting subsystems, PICs and control systems.
• Drive link component designs, work cross-functionally with mechanical and electrical engineers and system technical leads.
• Create detailed fiber designs for complex optical distribution networks. This includes routing, splice plans, and overall optical I/O.
• Contribute to link budgets and calculations to meet System Architecture requirements for worldline loss.
• Define guidelines for fiber routing, splicing, connectorization, cleanliness, and handling to meet quantum performance thresholds.
• Work with vendors and evaluate advanced fiber optic components, and qualify such components for use in quantum computing applications.
• Some Python scripting, calling Controls SW APIs / drivers to control lab equipment and proprietary systems.
• Clear communication and cross functional collaboration.

Experience/Qualifications:

• M.S. or PhD in Physics, Optical or Electrical Engineering with 5+ years industry experience.
• 5+ years experience designing, validating and testing fiber networks and fiber optical systems.
• Experience in fiber optics, including loss mechanisms, dispersion, nonlinear effects, polarization, and phase stability.
• Experience designing fiber optic systems, fiber networking and working with advanced splice equipment and optimization, fiber handling and routing.
• Experience working with optical test equipment including power meters, optical backscatter reflectometers (OBR), optical spectrum analyzer (OSA).
• Experience working with instrumentation used in the photonics and/or the electronics industry.
• Experience with software controls in Python.
• Experience developing test methods and optimization, tuning algorithms.
• Experience in product lifecycles, transitioning from R&D to product development.
• Strong organizational skills, excellent communication skills, attention to detail and ability to multitask.
• Strong critical thinking, creative, innovative, analytical, and detail oriented problem-solving skill.

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.

Base pay is one part of the total compensation package. Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Our compensation ranges reflect the cost of labor across multiple U.S. geographic markets, and we pay based on defined geographic zones. This position may be filled within one of the following U.S. geographic zones, each with its own salary range.

Actual compensation may vary outside of these ranges and is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, business needs, and internal equity. Your recruiter can share more details about the salary range applicable to your location during the hiring process.

• Zone 1 - Bay Area and NYC
• Zone 2 - Examples include Los Angeles and Washington DC
• Zone 3 - Examples include Austin, Chicago, and Sacramento
• Zone 4 - Examples include Nashville and Phoenix/Tempe and many remote locations

The estimated annual base salary range for this role is:

Zone 1

$208,300—$244,700 USD

Zone 2

$187,400—$220,200 USD

Zone 3

$166,600—$195,800 USD

Zone 4

$145,800—$171,300 USD