Optical Physicist at Atom Computing (Boulder, Colorado)

Job Description

Atom Computing is hiring an Optical Physicist in Boulder, Colorado, to conceive, model and prototype new optical devices that will help scale its neutral-atom quantum computers. The role suits PhD physicists in optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, or laser physics; cold-atom experience is not required.

At a glance

• Role: Optical Physicist
• Where: Boulder, Colorado, USA
• Pay: US$160,000–185,000 base, plus annual bonus and stock options
• Level: PhD in physics, applied physics, optical sciences or similar
• Apply: open until filled (re-checked 12 October 2026)

About the optical physicist role

• Model optical concepts analytically and numerically, prototype them, and validate them experimentally so they become deployable hardware
• Work with experimental physicists, quantum theorists, optical engineers and hardware and software engineers to integrate new technology into the quantum computers
• Analyse experimental results and communicate insights that guide hardware design
• Lift and move objects of up to 25 pounds (listed as a physical requirement)

Neutral-atom quantum computers use laser light to trap, move and control individual atoms, so scaling them to many more qubits depends heavily on better optical hardware: modulators, cavities and laser systems that are faster, more stable and more parallel.

What Atom Computing is looking for

• A PhD in physics, applied physics, optical sciences or a closely related field, with a strong focus on experimental optics
• Deep theoretical and experimental mastery of advanced optics, such as optical cavities, frequency combs, optical modulators or nonlinear optics
• Proven experience designing, building and characterising complex optical setups from first principles
• Effective communication with a diverse team of scientists and engineers

Nice to have

• Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics or laser physics
• Python and Git for experimental automation, control and data analysis
• Experience in a fast-paced hardware or start-up environment

Pay and location

Atom Computing lists a base salary of US$160,000–185,000, depending on experience, plus an annual bonus and incentive stock options. The role is based in Boulder, Colorado.

How to apply

Apply through the official Atom Computing job posting. Atom Computing’s posting does not give a closing date, so the role is open until filled; ResearchJobs.in will re-check this listing on 12 October 2026. Check the posting for location and work-authorisation details before you apply.

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