Photonics Engineer - Test and Characterisation

We are looking for an experienced Photonics Engineer to join our team developing and testing the photonic hardware for Aegiq's next-generation quantum computing systems.

This is a hands-on engineering role where you will design, build and develop advanced optical test systems, working across free-space and fibre optics, photonic integrated circuits and cryogenic technologies. You will take ownership of experimental setups, from initial design and assembly through to calibration, characterisation, automation and troubleshooting.

Working alongside our scientists and engineers, you will help translate experimental results into improvements in device performance and system design. You'll have the opportunity to solve challenging technical problems, develop new measurement capabilities and contribute directly to the development of our quantum computing hardware.

• Optical Test Systems: Design, build, align and maintain free-space and fibre-based optical systems for testing photonic devices and components.
• Cryogenic Characterisation: Plan and carry out measurements using cryogenic systems, including sample preparation, optical and electrical interfacing, thermal cycling and troubleshooting.
• Device Characterisation: Develop and perform measurements of optical and electro-optical performance, including transmission, loss, coupling efficiency, spectra, linewidth, polarisation and timing characteristics.
• PIC Testing: Develop reliable and repeatable methods for characterising photonic integrated circuits at room and cryogenic temperatures, using appropriate optical coupling and probing techniques.
• Measurement Automation: Develop Python-based measurement routines and instrument-control systems to improve test efficiency, repeatability and data quality.
• Data Analysis: Analyse experimental results, assess measurement uncertainty, identify performance limitations and communicate findings and recommendations to the wider engineering team.
• Laboratory Development: Take responsibility for test equipment, calibration, operating procedures and safe working practices, helping improve our laboratory capabilities as the company grows.
• Team
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with photonic design, fabrication, packaging, electronics and software teams to define test requirements, investigate device performance and support hardware development.

Aegiq is a Sheffield-based quantum technology company developing scalable, fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers. Founded in 2019, we work across the full quantum computing stack, from semiconductor chips and photonic hardware to software and real-world applications.

In 2025, we delivered our first-generation quantum computer to the UK's National Quantum Computing Centre. We're now developing our second-generation platform and expanding our team to tackle the scientific and engineering challenges involved in building quantum computers at scale.

We're a growing team of scientists, engineers and specialists who enjoy solving difficult problems and turning new ideas into working technology. At Aegiq, you'll have the opportunity to take ownership of your work, contribute directly to the technology we're developing and help shape the future of the company.

We value different backgrounds, experiences and ways of thinking. If you're excited about the work we're doing, we'd encourage you to apply, even if your experience doesn't match every requirement listed.

• Education: A degree in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. A Master's degree or PhD is welcome but not essential.
• Practical
  
  Experience:
  
  Typically four or more years of hands-on experience…