Laser Engineering Manager
Atom Computing
Software Engineering, Other Engineering
Boulder, CO, USA
Posted on Feb 3, 2026
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.
As Laser Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of laser engineers who are driving the design and development of our laser systems for our quantum computers, increasing reliability and performance.
Job Requirements
- Hire, lead, mentor and manage a team of high-performing laser engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Provide technical leadership for the design, development, and upkeep of complex laser systems.
- Provide guidance and technical expertise for laser and optical projects with the goal of maximizing performance and robustness.
- Develop and execute project plans, timelines, and budgets, while ensuring cross-functional alignment. Provide clear direction to ensure targets are met and consistent updates to all relevant stakeholders.
- Manage vendor relationships and procurement of laser components.
- Oversee the creation of detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports and user manuals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, maintaining ongoing communication with technical managers, project leaders, peers and support staff.
- Ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.
- Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
- External speaking and/or customer/partner engagements to align partners with Atom Computing
Experience & Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field required
- Minimum 10+ years experience (advanced degree inclusive) using and maintaining optical, opto-mechanical and/or laser systems.
- Minimum of 3 years experience designing and operating laser systems for control of atoms, ions, or solid state emitters.
Qualifications
- Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing, early-stage startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, and has a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty.
- Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of experimental physicists, hardware, software engineers and support staff.
- Expertise with current state-of-the-art lasers/amplifiers (e.g. diode and fiber-based) and nonlinear optical materials, and experience with the characterization, phase-locking, and modulation of optical and laser/amplifier systems.
- History of producing inventions and patents for laser or optical systems.
- Experience with data analysis (taking, plotting, analyzing, fitting and interpreting relevant data from optical testing experiments)
- Experience with engineering change documentation; ability to work from assembly drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, sketches and other written, visual and oral instructions.
- Definite pluses: Familiarity with Python and Git software version control. Zemax, Onshape, and/or Solidworks/CAD for designing optical and optomechanical systems.
- Experience and proficiency to manage projects and teams effectively.
- Ability and passion for recruiting the best Laser Engineers from academia and industry.
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 $175,000 - $200,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.