Senior Optical Engineer

Overview

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world’s most challenging problems. The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks. From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables “quantum everywhere” through our ecosystem of devices and platforms. Our mission is to commercialise atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in performance and computing applications.

Infleqtion has offices in the USA, United Kingdom and Australia. This is a full‑time position split between our Kidlington, Oxford office and the National Quantum Computing Centre, Harwell. Work from home is permitted up to 2 days per week based on business needs and manager approval.

Our team seeks an experienced optical engineer with a background in optical design, analysis and integration. As a senior optical engineer, you will work on a wide range of optical design challenges, translating experimental concepts into engineered solutions in a collaborative environment.

• Collaborate with physicists, opto‑mechanical, mechanical, electrical and software engineers to lead the development of optical systems for quantum sensing and computing.
• Lead and execute the process from requirements and design to assembly and test for optical systems spanning laser distribution, modulation, delivery and imaging.
• Work at the component level up through to large sub‑systems containing hundreds of precisely aligned optical elements.
• Optimise, analyse and tolerate optical designs using computational methods.
• Use simulation tools to guide design decisions and communicate findings to project leaders both verbally and through design documentation.
• Lead the design review process for optical systems.
• Validate and characterise optical components and systems for performance, reliability and stability by formulating and executing structured test plans.

• A Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Physics or a related field, or equivalent vocational qualification(s).

• Minimum 5+ years of industry experience in a relevant field.
• Expertise in free space and fibre optic system design.
• Experience with the design and/or use of complex optical systems (e.g., compound lens systems, SLMs, DOEs).
• Hands‑on experience with precision alignment of optical and laser systems.
• Detailed understanding of optical beam quality and aberration minimisation.
• Experience with optical simulation tools (ANSYS Zemax preferred).
• Experience using optical test equipment such as beam profilers, polarimeters, optical spectrum analysers, wavemeters, wave‑front sensors and photodiodes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience with design for beam stability in power, pointing, polarisation and phase.
• Experience with laser beam distribution, modulation and delivery.
• Experience with imaging system design and camera selection.
• Experience with laser systems, micro‑optics, photonically integrated circuits or metasurface components.
• Understanding of tolerance requirements for optical components and mounts.
• Experience with 3D CAD software (Solid Works preferred).
• Entrepreneurial drive, intellectual agility and personal eagerness to develop with the needs of the business.
• Passion for solving complex problems and challenges in a highly technical and scientific environment.
• Ability to work comfortably in a highly collaborative, cross‑functional, team‑oriented, and matrixed environment.

• Competitive salary
• Unlimited PTO
• Generous company 10% pension contribution regardless of employee contribution
• Cycle to work and Technology schemes
• Incentive Stock Option Plan
• BUPA Private Healthcare Insurance once probationary period is successfully completed

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment. You must be able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers and effectively engage in communications via phone, computer, or in-person. The role involves sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and carrying up to 10 kg.

Infleqtion is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and are committed to a diverse workforce. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, performance, and business needs.