We are looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to play a critical role in transitioning our quantum optical clock systems from prototype to scalable production. You will own key portions of the manufacturing process for highly sensitive photonic and opto-mechanical assemblies, with a strong emphasis on automation, repeatability, and yield.
This is a highly cross-functional, hands-on role where you will work closely with physicists, optical engineers, and hardware teams to help turn cutting-edge lab systems into robust, manufacturable products.
RequirementsWhat You'll Do:- Develop and scale manufacturing processes for quantum photonics systems, including lasers, fiber assemblies, and precision opto-mechanical subsystems
- Design and implement automated assembly, test, and inspection processes for high-precision optical systems.
- Drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) in collaboration with R&D and physics teams
- Lead new product introduction (NPI), transitioning lab prototypes into repeatable production builds
- Build and maintain production tooling, fixtures, and automated test platforms
- Identify and reduce process variability in critical optical alignment and packaging steps.
- Implement data-driven process control (SPC) and continuous improvement methodologies
- Troubleshoot complex integration issues spanning optics, electronics, vacuum systems, and controls
- Develop clear documentation (SOPs, travelers, work instructions) in a rapidly evolving environment
- Evaluate and qualify vendors for precision components and subassemblies, in collaboration with engineering and operations.
What We're Looking For:- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering or hardware development in a deep-tech environment (photonics, quantum, semiconductors, aerospace, etc.)
- Hands-on experience with precision assembly, including optics, fiber alignment, micro-mechanical systems, and UV-curable epoxies or precision bonding processes.
- Experience developing or deploying process automation (robotics, motion stages, machine vision, or automated test systems)
- Strong debugging and root cause analysis skills in complex physical systems
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, ambiguous startup environment
- To comply with the US export control laws, you must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
Preferred Experience - Experience with frequency combs, ultra-stable lasers, atomic physics systems, frequency standards, or free space optical systems.
- Familiarity with vacuum systems, thermal control, or vibration isolation
- Programming experience (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or similar) for automation and test
- Experience with cleanroom or precision lab environments
- Background in scaling low-volume prototypes to early production
BenefitsVector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:
- Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
- Health and Dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Employer 401(k) contributions
- 20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Fully stocked kitchen
Pay RangeThe approximate base salary range for this position is $110,000 to $135,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.
