COL-| Experimental Quantum Physicist
Listed on 2026-10-11
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Engineering
Physics, Research Scientist, Electronics Engineer, Electrical Engineering -
Research/Development
Physics, Research Scientist, Electronics Engineer
COL- | Experimental Quantum Physicist
Torrance, United States | Posted on 10/07/2026
Job DescriptionExperimental Quantum Physicist (Atomic Sensors & Quantum Metrology)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Workplace Type:
On-site (Laboratory-based)
Location:
Torrance, CA (Greater Los Angeles Area)
Salary Range: $110,000 – $180,000 / year (commensurate with experience & degree level)
Job Summary We are seeking an innovative and driven Experimental Quantum Physicist to spearhead the laboratory research, design, and hardware development of next-generation atomic and photonic metrology platforms. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing cutting-edge quantum sensing systems engineered for precision Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) as well as RF electrometry applications.
The ideal candidate is a self-starter with deep hands-on experimental proficiency across atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, cold-atom architectures, laser stabilization, or integrated photonic subsystems.
Experimental System Design:
Design, build, and optimize benchtop and compact prototype setups for atomic and photonic quantum sensors.
Laser & Optical Alignment:
Assemble, align, and maintain complex optical trains, narrow-linewidth laser systems, optical frequency combs, and precision fiber-coupling hardware.
Quantum Sensing & Metrology:
Drive experimental validation across core quantum modalities (e.g., atom interferometry, atomic magnetometers, Rydberg-atom electrometer systems, or chip-scale atomic clocks).
Data Acquisition & Analysis:
Develop automated test benches and instrumentation control routines for rapid data logging, signal processing, Allan deviation measurements, and noise-floor characterization.
Hardware Miniaturization & Packaging:
Collaborate on the transition of free-space laboratory setups into ruggedized, compact physics packages and integrated photonic architectures.
Technical Documentation:
Document experimental methodologies, system architectures, and characterization results in comprehensive technical reports and engineering specifications.
Education:
Master’s or Ph.D. in Experimental Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
Laboratory Tenure: 2+ years of hands-on post-graduate or industry experimental laboratory experience in atomic physics, quantum optics, or photonics.
Core Technical Expertise:
Demonstrated hands-on experimental background in at least one of the following domains:
Atom-based sensing:
Cold/neutral atom systems, atom interferometers, atomic magnetometers, Rydberg-atom sensors, or atomic clocks.
Integrated photonics:
Waveguide coupling, photonic integrated circuit (PIC) characterization, or hybrid photonic packaging.
Levated optomechanics:
Precision manipulation and optical trapping of nano- or micro-particles.
Optical frequency combs:
Comb generation, carrier-envelope offset (CEO) stabilization, and comb-based metrology.
Optics & Lasers:
Demonstrated proficiency with laser frequency locking (e.g., Pound-Drever-Hall, saturated absorption spectroscopy), vacuum systems (UHV), and precision optical alignment.
Familiarity with ultra-high vacuum (UHV) chambers, magnetic shielding design, or RF/microwave electronics for atomic state preparation and interrogation.
Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW for instrument automation, PID loop tuning, and experimental data acquisition.
Experience transitioning laboratory-scale quantum physics apparatus into deployable, SWaP-optimized (Size, Weight, and Power) prototypes.
Compensation & BenefitsBase Salary: $110,000 – $180,000 / year
Health & Wellness:
Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage
Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan
Time Off:
Paid Time Off (PTO), sick leave, and company-paid holidays
Standardized
Title:
Experimental Physicist / Quantum Physicist
Alternative Matching Titles:
Quantum Optics Scientist, Atomic Physicist, Photonics Research Scientist, AMO Physicist
City:
Torrance
State:
California (CA)
Postal Code: 90504 (or San Pedro, CA 90731)
Country:
United States
Industry: Defense & Space / R&D / Nanotechnology & Quantum Tech
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