Staff Scientist PIC Laser

Senior • On-site

163,428 - 213,972 USD/yr

Pleasanton, CA

Location: Pleasanton, CA (onsite)
Travel: Up to 5%

The Role

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser systems, evolving them from initial concept through system-level integration. Your work will focus on architecting the transition of high-precision frequency combs and ultra-low-noise systems from traditional discrete components to advanced Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platforms, driving innovation for quantum timing, atomic clocks, and inertial sensors.

Responsibilities

System Architecture: Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.
PIC Design & Simulation: Design and simulate PIC layouts optimized for high-Q micro-resonators and dispersion-engineered nonlinear optics using SiN, TFLN, and Tantala.
Translation & Integration: Architect migration of frequency combs and low-noise systems from discrete fiber/free-space components to PIC platforms.
Assembly & Characterization: Build and characterize systems including fiber spooling, MOPA configurations, and nonlinear conversion stages.
Precision Metrology: Characterize frequency noise, phase noise, and Allan deviation at benchtop and chip levels.
Frequency Stabilization: Develop testing protocols for PDH locking and f-2f self-referencing.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Integrate laser systems into atomic clocks and quantum timing sensors.

Requirements

3+ years of experience with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks.
PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field focused on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics.
Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise using Phase Noise Analyzers and high-speed RF equipment.
Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG in nonlinear media.
Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing and high-tolerance free-space optical assembly.
U.S. Person status required for export control compliance.

Benefits

Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
Health and dependent care FSA
Employer 401(k) contributions
20 days PTO and 11 paid holidays
Paid parental leave
Fully stocked kitchen

The approximate base salary range is $163,430 to $213,972 per year. Total compensation includes base, bonus, equity, and benefits, and varies based on qualifications and experience.

IonQ

IonQ, Inc. (NYSE: IONQ) is a leading quantum computing company and merchant supplier delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, with operations across the United States, Europe, and Asia, IonQ provides quantum computing services through major cloud providers and partners with organizations such as Amazon Web Services and AstraZeneca. The company develops advanced quantum systems, including its latest generation IonQ Tempo, and has achieved record-setting performance milestones in quantum computing. IonQ’s mission is to build world-class quantum platforms that solve complex global challenges and make quantum technology more accessible and impactful. The company serves industries including drug discovery, materials science, finance, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. IonQ promotes a culture centered on innovation, autonomy, respect, equity, and inclusion, and is committed to fair treatment and equal opportunity for all employees.

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