Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or related field (advanced degree preferred)
Minimum 5 years of experience designing and testing complex photonic or laser-based systems
Expertise in narrow linewidth and frequency-stabilized laser systems
Proficient in low-noise electronic controls and servo systems
Strong background in optical system modeling, alignment, and noise analysis
Excellent communication and leadership skills
Experience in quantum systems or precision metrology is a plus
Responsibilities
Provide technical leadership on the architecture and design of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies
Define and guide the development of core photonics and control technologies
Lead efforts to achieve ultra-low noise performance and reliability through design and validation
Collaborate with engineers across optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical disciplines
Provide technical expertise for system-level requirements and performance validation
Mentor junior engineers and promote a culture of technical excellence
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching
20 paid time off (PTO) days per year
13 paid company holidays
9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)
Full Job Description
Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Principal Photonics Systems Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self-starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows:
Provide technical leadership and system-level direction on the architecture, design, and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies.
Define and guide the development of core photonics and control technologies, including laser stabilization, narrow linewidth sources, and low-noise electronic control systems.
Lead efforts to achieve ultra-low noise performance and exceptional reliability through rigorous design, modeling, and experimental validation.
Collaborate closely with optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical engineers
Provide technical expertise to for the development of and maintenance system-level requirements, specifications, and performance validation protocols.
Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.
Requirements
Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
Minimum 5 years of experience designing and testing complex photonic or laser-based systems.
Skills:
Demonstrated expertise in:
Narrow linewidth and frequency-stabilized laser systems
Low-noise electronic controls and servo systems
Optical system modeling, alignment, and noise analysis
Experimental design, execution, and troubleshooting
Data processing and analysis
Optical and electronic laboratory test equipment and metrology
Excellent communication and leadership skills with demonstrated ability to drive technical decisions across teams.
Experience in quantum systems, precision metrology, or related emerging technologies is a strong plus.
Startup Mindset:
You're creative, flexible, and eager to wear multiple hats.
You're passionate about building systems from the ground up and comfortable with ambiguity and change.
Benefits
The expected annual salary range for this position is $175,000-$225,000.
As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
