Senior Optics Engineer

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary range: £55,000 - £70,000 per year DOE

Location: Cambridge, UK

Application closing date: Wednesday 28th May at 5pm

Visa Sponsorship available

Join Nu Quantum - Shaping the Future of Technology

Nu Quantum is at the forefront of quantum computing and advanced technology, driven by innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. We’re creating an environment where brilliant minds from all backgrounds collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Founded to commercialise research generated over the last decade at the Cavendish Laboratory, Nu Quantum is on a mission to shape the future of quantum information systems.

We’re working on exciting technology that will improve the utility and accelerate the time-to-market of quantum computing systems. We integrate novel quantum photonic technology to form an efficient and scalable quantum networking infrastructure in partnership with world-leading companies and academic groups.

The Role

The role will initially focus on the design, realisation and optimisation of low noise optical systems used to lock optical microcavities to stable lasers. The successful candidate will work within a highly collaborative team, and be supported by in-house knowledge in electronics, mechanical engineering, and software. Beyond that, there will also be opportunities for contributions to Nu Quantum’s technical roadmap and creative design.

Responsibilities

• Design and implementation of tabletop optics experiments for Pound-Drever-Hall optical cavity locking.
• Working closely with complementary engineering disciplines including electronics, mechanical, and software to devise and execute test plans and development plans.
• Effective communication of complex technical information and results through report writing and presentations to internal and external stakeholders, both technical and non-technical.
• Mentor Technicians and junior Engineers to develop their skills in organisation best practice.

Your Skills, Qualifications, and Experience

• PhD level qualification in a relevant field of experimental physics or equivalent experience. 
• Proven track of technical initiative and leadership, from design to delivery.
• Hands-on experience locking narrow linewidth optical microcavities or lasers.
• Hands-on experience with building bespoke benchtop optics setups, including free-space and fibre-based optics, and electro-optic modulators.
• Strong data management and record-keeping ability to facilitate collaborative workflow.
• Wide range of experience in experimental control and data acquisition techniques. 
• Experience with instrumentation and data analysis using Python or Matlab.
• Evidence of leading and solving complex technical lab problems.
• Excellent team player.
• Proactive and natural problem solver with a ‘can do’ attitude.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).

Other (Desirable but not required)

Industry or postgraduate experience in two or more of the following areas:

• Frequency combs
• Code version control and collaboration through a platform such as git
• Noise analysis and minimisation in optical or electronic systems
• Experience in comprehensive characterisation of optical resonator devices
• Experience with optical simulation software packages such as Lumerical or Zeemax/Optalix is desirable

Why Work with Us?

At Nu Quantum, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds, and experiences are empowered. We value diverse perspectives as a source of creativity and innovation and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented and marginalised communities. Joining Nu Quantum means joining a team where you can grow professionally and be part of an inspiring mission to shape the future of technology.

Benefits

• Flexible working options

• Group DIS cover (4 x salary)
• 1 month paid Sabbatical after 4 years of service
• Generous Employee Referral Scheme
• Private Medical and Dental Cover (With Vitality and Bupa)
• On-site gym membership
• Cycle scheme 
• Refreshments, including fruit and beverages, are available in the office.
• 28 days annual leave, including a 3-day company shutdown period + UK Public Holidays
• Option to purchase up to 5 days holiday per year
• Enhanced paid family leave policies 
• Time for Charity work
• Access to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens