Lead Engineer, Lithography

About the Role

Rigetti Computing is seeking a Lead Lithography Engineer to serve as the technical authority for our patterning ecosystem. Sitting at the critical intersection of high‑end R&D and scalable production, you will architect the "wet" process framework that translates quantum designs into hardware. You will partner with our EBL hardware experts to optimize beam‑resist interactions while providing the technical vision for our track and optical lithography modules.

This role is designed for an experienced engineer to take ownership of the broader lithography and metrology roadmap as we accelerate our qubit manufacturing capabilities.

• Ph.D. with 7+ years or M.S. with 10+ years of direct experience in lithography process development and integration.
• Degree in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven hands‑on mastery of the full lithography "wet" stack, including CAR/non‑CAR resist chemistry, reaction kinetics, CD control, and sub‑micron overlay management.
• Strong expertise in SPC, DOE, GR&R, and root‑cause analysis; proficiency with JMP or similar statistical software to build diagnostic frameworks from the ground up.
• Proven ability to professionalize processes in R&D or semi‑manual environments, translating "tribal knowledge" into scalable SOPs, recipes, and technical specifications.
• Hands‑on proficiency with track systems, projection steppers, contact aligners, and maskless aligners (MLA).
• Ability to build process frameworks and drive technical strategy rather than just executing within existing ones.
• Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity, prioritize module‑level goals, and mentor junior engineering staff while maintaining deep hands‑on technical engagement.
• Comfortable working in cleanroom environments (HAZMAT and ESD protocols).

• Experience partnering with E‑beam hardware specialists to optimize the resist/process interface.
• Technical knowledge of proximity effect correction (PEC), dose strategy optimization, and multi‑layer resist stacks.
• Expertise in managing charging and thermal stability challenges on non‑standard or insulating substrates.
• Direct experience with DUV (KrF/ArF) or i‑line projection lithography and the transition of processes to high‑throughput production.
• Experience with ultrasonic spray‑coating systems and lithography on high‑topology or 3D surfaces.
• Proven success developing hybrid optical + e‑beam workflows to ensure chemical compatibility and sub‑50nm alignment precision.
• Prior experience in Quantum, MEMS, or Photonics fabrication environments.

• Take technical command of one of the most complex modules in the quantum ecosystem, personally driving the process breakthroughs required for next‑generation qubits.
• Play a foundational role in transitioning Rigetti’s qubit production from a lab‑scale process to a world‑class manufacturing operation.
• Serve as a lead technical voice in the fab, with a clear trajectory toward broader ownership of the lithography and metrology roadmap.
• Work at the "tip of the spear" in quantum computing, collaborating with world‑leading experts in one of the few dedicated quantum foundries on earth.

165, a year

Base Salary

Rigetti complies with all local and state regulations in regards to displaying salary ranges. Final compensation for this role will be determined by various factors such as a candidate’s relevant work experience, skills, and geographic location. Rigetti offers a full slate of benefits from competitive salaries, equity, medical, dental and vision for employees as well as a 401(k) plan, a paid parental leave program, rejuvenation days, and vacation policy that aligns with local regulations and industry standards.

As engineering leaders, we value diversity and are committed to building a culture of inclusion to attract and engage innovative thinkers. Our technology, meant to serve all of humanity, cannot succeed if those who built it do not mirror the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from women, minorities, and other under‑represented groups are encouraged.

Rigetti is committed to full compliance with applicable anti‑discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.