Optical Engineer - Lens Designer

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer specializing in Lens Design to create custom, high-performance optical systems from the ground up. In this role, you will own the complete optical design lifecycle—from initial concept and ray-tracing to tolerancing, finalizing optical prescriptions, and working directly with fabrication vendors to bring custom lenses for our quantum computer to life.

Job Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test lens assemblies and systems for fiber collimation, laser delivery, imaging systems.
• Research and develop novel lens and mirror systems for laser delivery and imaging systems.
• Perform analysis on aberration correction, athermalization, and chromatic performance to balance competing system requirements
• Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance and stray light analysis
• Develop alignment procedures for optical designs
• Generate rigorous optical fabrication drawings and specifications (e.g., ISO 10110 standards) for custom lens components and assemblies.
• Collaborate directly with custom optics foundries and coating vendors to ensure manufacturability (DFM) and oversee the procurement of custom optical elements.
  
  
  
  

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Sciences or Optical Engineering, advanced degree a plus
• 5 years optical design experience
• 2 years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment
  
  
  
  

Qualifications

• Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging
• Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
• Experience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
• Expertise in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) for precision optics
• Fluency in optical drawing standards (ISO 10110).
• Experience with lens tolerancing in ray-tracing software
• Experience with STOP analysis
• Experience with stray light analysis
• Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
• High attention-to-detail and accuracy
• Creative, critical thinking with ability to strategize and solve problems in a dynamic environment
• Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment
• Excellent communication, listening and people skills
  
  
  
  

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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.

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $150,000-$175,000 commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.