Photonics Test Engineer

Xanadu’s mission is to build quantum computers that are useful and available to people everywhere.

At Xanadu, we are learners, innovators, researchers, collaborators and problem solvers. We are creating something that has never been built before. What we are doing is extremely hard, the classic moon shot. Few people in their life will be able to be a part of something like this, where if we are successful, the technologies we develop will solve some of the world’s most challenging problems and literally change the world. And that is something to be excited about!

Your role and responsibilities:

As part of the Test & Measurement Team, you will be engaging in the development of experimental test procedures and laboratories, supporting measurement and qualification routines for our devices, and analyzing and exchanging results with stakeholders within the company. The main activities include:

• Build, maintain, and debug complex lab hardware and software systems to support advanced measurements on our photonics devices.
• Operate our measurement setups with high attention to detail, executing repeated measurements and debugging measurement failures in real time.
• Develop software automation of complex routines for high volume measurements.
• Work closely with our design, instrumentation, and tooling teams to exchange results and derive actionable insights.

Basic qualifications and experience:

You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates.

• Currently pursuing a BSc, MS or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• Extreme attention to detail and a systematic approach to experimentation, with a focus on minimizing both systematic and statistical errors.
• Proficiency in Python for instrument control and experience with standard lab equipment (SMUs, OPMs, Oscilloscopes, VNAs, LCR meters).
• Experience in optics labs and electronics test benches. Experience working with hardware from vendors such as Thorlabs, AFW, Koheron, Keysight, Keithley.
• Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple competing priorities.

Preferred qualifications and experience:

• MS or Ph.D. degree in photonics, AMO, laser physics, optics, or electronics.
• Experience with CAD modeling, Fusion 360, Solidworks, etc.
• Experience with RF electronics, VNA, spectrum analyzers.
• Experience working with tunable laser systems, laser stabilization techniques (such as dither locking, PDH), and frequency calibration techniques.
• Experience handling complex experimental datasets, including fitting to models, refining simulations, and performing rigorous error analysis.
• Understanding of optical alignment of photonic devices, including developing or expanding upon alignment routines with different physical hardware mechanisms.

This is a newly created position offered as an initial 4-month contract or internship, with the potential for extension based on business needs and mutual fit. The target compensation is $40 to $45 per hour, with the final rate determined by your location, relevant experience, and internal benchmarks.

Our values are important. They are fundamental and lay the foundation for culture at Xanadu. Learn more about our values here.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive, safe, and equitable culture and fostering an environment where our employees feel included, valued, and heard. We are committed to meeting the needs of all individuals and support a barrier-free workplace. Should you require accommodations at any point during the recruitment process please contact Recruiting at [email protected].

Please be advised that we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the screening and assessment of applicants for this position. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.