Microwave and Cryogenics Test Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Microwave and Cryogenics Test Engineer. Location: Fremont, California

This is a hands-on role focused on operating, testing, and maintaining RF and cryogenic systems that power advanced quantum processors; The position involves close collaboration with physicists, engineers, and technicians in a research-driven environment.

Responsibilities:

• Test, validate, and debug custom RF control systems using network analyzers, oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, DC power supplies, and internal tools
• Operate, troubleshoot, service, and maintain cryogenic and vacuum systems including scroll pumps, turbo pumps, cryo compressors, cold traps, and high-vacuum components
• Perform helium leak detection, pump rebuilds, and thermal system management
• Assemble, validate, and install electro-mechanical, RF, vacuum, and cryogenic assemblies with high attention to detail
• Contribute to the development of test plans and execute validation testing for next-generation RF hardware
• Participate in an on-call rotation to ensure cryogenic systems uptime;
• Prepare, inspect, and package quantum chip assemblies for testing
• Follow established procedures and help improve standard operating procedures and best practices
• Read and interpret CAD drawings, schematics, and engineering specifications
• Support external system installations and work directly with customers and partners, with up to 20 percent travel

Qualifications:

• Degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industrial or military experience
• Strong experience with electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and multimeters
• Extensive hands-on experience with sub-Kelvin cryogenic systems
• Experience operating and maintaining high-availability laboratory or industrial equipment
• Experience assembling and maintaining complex scientific or electro-mechanical systems;
• Knowledge of vacuum systems, vacuum plumbing, P and ID diagrams, and standard fittings
• Working knowledge of statistical methods for test and validation such as design of experiments and Six Sigma
• Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
• Experience working with external vendors and partners

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience with dilution refrigerators or ultra-low-temperature cryogenic systems
• Programming or scripting experience in Python or related languages
• MS or PhD in a relevant technical field

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: 115,000 to 140,000 USD per year
• Final compensation based on experience, skills, and location
• Equity opportunities
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan
• Paid parental leave program
• Rejuvenation days
• Vacation policy aligned with local regulations and industry standards

Other Information: Rigetti Computing is a full-stack quantum computing company serving enterprise, government, and research clients; The company operates quantum systems through its cloud platform and designs and manufactures its own quantum processors.