R&D Engineer

Vector Atomic, based in Pleasanton, California, is at the forefront of commercializing quantum technology for critical applications like GPS-free navigation and timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. We are dedicated to delivering near-term products that harness the exquisite properties of quantum systems, designing devices with the practical form, fit, function, and cost for real-world integration.

We are actively seeking versatile R&D Engineers to build ultra-precise quantum devices for autonomous/GPS-free navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This is a jack-of-all-trades role demanding a skilled and flexible engineer ready to thrive in a dynamic R&D environment. While the ideal candidate will possess a strong subset of the required skills, a willingness and capability to rapidly learn new ones are crucial.

Our rapidly growing team of over 75 plus innovators brings an innovative yet practical approach to developing quantum devices. We value strong individual contributors who take ownership of their work while passionately supporting overall team goals. If you're driven to work on transformational technologies in a dynamic, collaborative environment, we invite you to join our team!

What You’ll Do

• Build and test optical, electrical, or vacuum systems
• Systems integration of electronics controller with sensors
• Set-up test equipment; automate data collection

What We're Looking For:

• Engineering/related degree and 3+ years relevant work experience
• To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal.

Hands-on experience with several of the following:

• Lasers and optics, electronics, and/or vacuum systems in an R&D environment
• Laser and optical system prototyping
• Electronic test instrumentation such including oscilloscopes, pulse generators, power supplies and voltmeters
• Experience designing, building, and working with electromechanical assemblies.
• System integration, bring-up, and debugging
• Basic bring-up of PCB boards
• Electromechanical design of custom/semi-custom enclosures for electronic assemblies that address issues of shielding, grounding and thermal constraints
• Design and build of custom cabling and interface boards
• Computer-aided design
• Basic machining skill

Vector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We are an employee-owned company with competitive compensation and benefits including:

• Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
• Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer 401(k) contributions
• 20 days of paid time off & 10 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Fully stocked kitchen

Pay Range

The approximate base salary range for this position is $85,000 to $140,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits.  It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.

Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.

Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.