Lab Operations Technician (Polishing)

Job Description

Job Title: Lab Operations Technician (Polishing). Location: Palo Alto, California, United States

This role supports polishing lab operations and manufacturing activities involved in building and assembling quantum hardware components; The position requires hands-on work in lab, cleanroom, and manufacturing environments, including assembly, testing, calibration, and cryogenic system support.

Responsibilities:

• Support polishing lab and manufacturing line operations
• Assemble parts and components according to engineering specifications
• Perform sub-assembly testing and install assemblies into cryostats
• Operate and support cryogenic and room-temperature test systems (training provided)
• Cleave and splice fiber optic cables;
• Use hand tools and precision instruments for assembly, welding, and press fits
• Perform repair, alignment, and calibration tasks as required
• Maintain material inventory and track usage
• Update Manufacturing Execution System (MES) with completed work
• Create daily shift pass-down reports with results and activities;
• Communicate effectively with managers, operations teams, and engineering teams
• Follow manufacturing and sub-assembly instructions accurately
• Maintain a safe, clean lab and cleanroom environment
• Work independently with minimal supervision
• Support overtime and weekend shifts when required

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in semiconductor, optical, or R&D test environments
• Experience operating manufacturing or lab tooling
• Ability to inspect own work and perform quality assurance checks
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures
• High manual dexterity with small components and precision tools
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs safely;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Windows applications
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities;
• Willingness to perform a wide range of tasks in a fast-paced environment
• High school diploma or equivalent experience

Preferred:

• Experience working with cryogenic systems
• Experience in cleanroom or semiconductor manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with fiber optics and optical component handling;
• Prior work supporting engineering R&D teams

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base Pay (Bay Area Only):
  • $63,000 to $72,000 USD annually
• Competitive total compensation package
• Equity and full benefits eligibility for full-time employees
• Compensation may vary based on experience, skills, and location

Additional Information:

• PsiQuantum will only contact candidates using official company email addresses
• The company will never request bank account information during the hiring process
• Unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies are not accepted;
• This role supports government-funded quantum computing projects in the US and Australia