Principal Laser Engineer

The Principal Laser Engineer at Atom Computing is responsible for managing and scaling up laser systems for our quantum computers. This includes providing technical expertise for laser and optical projects to enhance performance and robustness. The role also involves gathering project requirements and developing actionable plans to ensure timely task completion, as well as mentoring other engineers to boost team capabilities.

To qualify for the Principal Laser Engineer position at Atom Computing, candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field, along with a minimum of 12 years of experience in optical, opto-mechanical, or laser systems. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate familiarity with current laser technologies, experience in characterizing and optimizing laser systems, and a history of producing inventions and patents.

Essential skills for a Principal Laser Engineer at Atom Computing include expertise in state-of-the-art laser and amplifier systems, data analysis proficiency, and the ability to work with engineering change documentation. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration skills are vital for interacting with a diverse team and stakeholders. Familiarity with Python, Git version control, and CAD software like Zemax or Solidworks is a plus.

At Atom Computing, career development is a priority. As a Principal Laser Engineer, you will have the opportunity to mentor other team members, enhancing your leadership skills while contributing to their growth. Additionally, the innovative atmosphere fosters continuous learning and exploration, allowing engineers to stay at the forefront of advancements in quantum computing technology.

Working at Atom Computing comes with a range of attractive perks, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their dependents. The company also offers unlimited paid time off, 401K matching, and various other benefits like catered lunches and snacks. Furthermore, competitive salaries and opportunities for annual bonuses and equity in the company make this role exceptionally rewarding.

When answering this question, highlight specific laser systems you have worked with, detailing your direct responsibilities and the impact of your work on projects. Mention particular technologies, challenges you faced, and how you overcame them, ensuring you emphasize both technical capabilities and problem-solving skills.

A good response should illustrate your method for prioritizing tasks, such as using project management tools or frameworks like Agile. Discuss how you assess project requirements and timelines, communicate with team members, and adjust priorities dynamically as challenges arise to ensure project success.

Provide examples of mentoring activities, detailing how you guided less experienced engineers through challenges or projects. Discuss methods you used to enhance their skills and confidence, and how this contributed to overall team development and project outcomes.

When discussing this process, explain the steps involved in evaluating the performance of laser systems. Mention specific metrics and parameters you focus on, and share experiences where your input led to improvements or innovations in laser performance.

Share strategies you use to navigate ambiguous situations, such as gathering additional information, involving team collaboration, and developing contingency plans. Highlight how you remain adaptable and focused on the project goals despite uncertainties.

Emphasize the importance of data analysis in making informed decisions. Give examples of how you collected and interpreted data from optical testing experiments, and how these insights led to actionable conclusions or improvements to your engineering designs.

Outline a specific project’s challenges, your analyses, and the creative solutions you implemented. Focus on your analytical and problem-solving skills and the results of the project to demonstrate your impact and achievements.

Share details about any patents or publications you have contributed to, outlining the significance of these innovations in your field. Discuss the problem these innovations addressed and the outcomes that were achieved as a result.

Discuss the resources you use to keep abreast of developments in laser technology, such as industry journals, conferences, and networking with peers. Highlight how you implement new knowledge into your work to enhance project outcomes.

Provide insights into your proficiency with design software, mentioning specific projects where you successfully utilized it. Discuss the advantages it brought to the project, and give examples of how your designs contributed to successful outcomes.