Staff Quantum Physicist, Hardware Systems Lead

Quick Facts

• Role: Staff Quantum Physicist, Hardware Systems Lead

• Location: Chicago, IL

• Salary: $180,000 - $230,000 USD annually

Description

Lead and manage the Chicago-based team building, deploying, and operating a next-generation neutral-atom quantum computer. You will oversee technical execution in a new quantum hardware laboratory—translating strategy into technical priorities, mentoring physicists and engineers, and ensuring operational readiness and high performance. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with people leadership, with a focus on reliability, availability, stability, and gate fidelity.

Responsibilities

• Lead deployment and operation of advanced neutral-atom quantum computing systems

• Establish team processes and a culture centered on accountability, collaboration, scientific rigor, and open communication

• Manage and grow a team of up to six direct reports (coaching, mentorship, performance management, career development)

• Recruit, hire, and onboard physicists and engineers

• Collaborate with software, hardware, facilities, and project management teams to meet program objectives

• Translate strategic goals into technical priorities, milestones, staffing plans, and risk mitigation

• Guide development, integration, commissioning, and operation of neutral-atom quantum computing systems

• Drive improvements in system performance, reliability, availability, stability, and gate fidelity

• Ensure rigorous experimentation, troubleshooting, validation, and system optimization

• Contribute to technical roadmaps, intellectual property development, proposals, and external technical engagements

• Participate in hands-on problem-solving when necessary

Requirements

• Proven experience leading and developing technical teams (performance management, coaching, goal setting, employee growth)

• Track record delivering complex experimental hardware programs from concept through implementation

• Ability to build trust, delegate effectively, resolve challenges, and bring together cross-functional technical teams

• Strong organizational, planning, and execution skills

• Strong communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences

• Strong technical foundation in quantum physics/AMO physics (or closely related discipline)

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent industry experience)

• Typically 5+ years post-PhD experience (or comparable experience leading advanced scientific/engineering programs)

Benefits

• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

• Travel up to 10%

• Primarily office and laboratory settings working with advanced technical equipment (lasers, computing systems, experimental hardware)

• Employment may require access to technologies regulated under U.S. export control laws