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Quantum Computing, Deep Tech

Principal Subsystem Build and Test Engineer

Boulder, COOnsiteFull TimePrincipalPosted 20 days agoVisa sponsorship available

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Required skills

  • optical alignment
  • precision assembly
  • integration
  • electronic subsystems
  • RF subsystems
  • vacuum subsystems
  • mechanical subsystems
  • electromechanical subsystems
  • first-of-a-kind builds
  • repeatable production

Nice to have

  • quantum computing
  • atomic physics
  • advanced photonics
  • aerospace
  • semiconductor
  • scientific instrumentation

Role summary

We are seeking a Principal Subsystem Build and Test Engineer to lead the build, integration, and testing of complex hardware assemblies, including optical, vacuum/mechanical, RF, and electronic systems. This role involves managing a multidisciplinary team, translating designs into practical assembly and test methods, and troubleshooting failures. You will establish repeatable build processes, provide hands-on technical direction for precision assembly and alignment, and ensure quality through rigorous testing and record-keeping. Experience with quantum computing, atomic physics, advanced photonics, aerospace, semiconductor, or scientific instrumentation is preferred. This is an onsite role requiring the ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the build, integration, and testing of optical, vacuum/mechanical, RF, electronic, and cable assemblies.
  • Manage and develop a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians.
  • Partner with Engineering on first-of-a-kind builds and translate designs into practical assembly and test methods.
  • Work with Manufacturing Engineering and Quality to establish repeatable build processes, work instructions, fixtures, and test procedures.
  • Provide hands-on technical direction for optical alignment, precision assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
  • Diagnose build and test failures and work with Engineering to identify design, process, material, or workmanship issues.
  • Ensure required materials, documentation, qualified personnel, and calibrated equipment are available before builds begin.
  • Maintain accurate build, inspection, and test records and release verified subsystems to System Integration & Test (SI&T).
  • Track build progress, first-pass acceptance, rework, and cycle time and use repeat-build findings to improve processes and fixtures.
  • Oversee approved subsystem measurements and acceptance tests, including optical characterization, electronic checkout, and applicable mechanical or vacuum verification.
  • Collaborate with leadership to plan personnel, workspace, fixtures, and shared equipment across parallel build efforts.

    • Experience & Education

  • BS in Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience. Advanced degree preferred.
  • 8+ years of experience building, integrating, testing, or developing precision optical, scientific, or similarly complex hardware.
  • 3+ years of experience mentoring engineers and technicians in an integration, manufacturing, or test environment.

    • Qualifications

  • Extensive hands-on experience assembling, aligning, integrating, and testing precision optical systems.
  • Experience working with electronic/RF, vacuum, mechanical, or electromechanical subsystems.
  • Experience taking first-of-a-kind hardware through build, test, troubleshooting, and transition into repeatable production.
  • Practical knowledge of optical assembly, alignment, cleanliness, bonding coordination, and the measurements used to verify precision optical subsystems.
  • Working knowledge of electronic and RF assembly, chassis and cable checkout, and vacuum and mechanical build requirements.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to distinguish design issues from process, material, equipment, and workmanship problems.
  • Experience working with released drawings, work instructions, inspection criteria, test procedures, calibrated equipment, and nonconformance processes.
  • Desire to coach engineers and technicians and distinguish process problems from design issues.
  • Experience with quantum computing, atomic physics, advanced photonics, aerospace, semiconductor, scientific instrumentation, or similarly complex hardware preferred.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
    • Ready to apply?
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