Senior Validation Engineer, Electro-Optical Devices

About the role

PsiQuantum is building a fault-tolerant quantum computer using photonic technology, and the Senior Validation Engineer for Electro-Optical Devices plays a central part in ensuring that critical hardware components meet rigorous performance and reliability standards throughout the development cycle. This role focuses on testing, characterizing, and validating electro-optical devices that form the foundation of PsiQuantum's quantum processing platform, working at the intersection of optical engineering and quantum information science. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to define test strategies, analyze device behavior under stress conditions, and drive measurable improvements across the product development lifecycle from prototype to production. The position is based in Milpitas, California, and reports to the engineering leadership within the hardware validation organization at PsiQuantum.

Key facts

What you'll do

Design and execute comprehensive test plans for electro-optical devices used in quantum computing systems.

Characterize device performance metrics including optical loss, electrical impedance, and thermal stability under operational conditions.

Collaborate with design engineers to identify failure modes and develop root cause analysis for device issues.

Build and maintain automated test fixtures and measurement setups for high-throughput device validation workflows.

Analyze large datasets from device testing using statistical methods to identify trends and correlations.

Develop and refine validation protocols that align with PsiQuantum's quality standards for photonic hardware.

Interface with suppliers and external partners to evaluate incoming electro-optical components and materials.

Document test results, create detailed reports, and communicate findings to cross-functional engineering teams.

Support the integration of validated electro-optical devices into larger quantum processing unit assemblies.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives by proposing modifications to testing approaches and device design specifications.

Participate in design reviews and provide validation feedback early in the product development cycle.

Ensure compliance with internal and external quality standards throughout the electro-optical device validation process.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.

Five or more years of hands-on experience in hardware validation, testing, or manufacturing engineering roles.

Demonstrated expertise in working with electro-optical components, photonic devices, or optoelectronic systems in a production environment.

Strong understanding of semiconductor fabrication processes, device physics, and the behavior of materials at optical wavelengths.

Proficiency in using oscilloscopes, optical spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and other precision measurement instruments.

Experience writing Python or MATLAB scripts to automate test sequences and process large volumes of measurement data.

Ability to read and interpret technical datasheets, specification documents, and design files for complex electro-optical assemblies.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting test findings and collaborating with diverse engineering groups.

Familiarity with statistical process control methods and quality assurance frameworks used in hardware manufacturing environments.

Willingness to work in a laboratory setting and handle sensitive optical and electronic equipment with care.

Nice to have

Master's degree in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field with a focus on photonics.

Prior experience at a quantum computing company or a photonics startup working on hardware development.

Knowledge of cryogenic environments and low-noise electronic measurement techniques relevant to quantum device testing.

Experience with version control systems such as Git and issue tracking tools like Jira or similar platforms.

Experience with LabVIEW or similar graphical programming environments for instrument control and automated measurement systems.

Skills & tools

Python scripting for test automation, data analysis, and visualization of electro-optical measurement results.

MATLAB for numerical computation, signal processing, and statistical analysis of device characterization data.

Optical measurement equipment including optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, and interferometric setups.

Electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, source measure units, and high-speed digitizers.

Solid understanding of photonic device physics including waveguide theory, detector response, and laser characterization.

Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication terminology and process flows for integrated photonic and electronic components.

Practical notes

This role is based in Milpitas, California, and requires on-site presence at PsiQuantum's facility.

The position is a full-time employment opportunity with standard company benefits and eligibility for equity participation.

Candidates should expect to undergo a multi-stage interview process including technical assessments and team-fit evaluations.

PsiQuantum is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.