Photonics Test Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Photonics Test Engineer. Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Responsibilities:

• Design, upgrade, and expand testing infrastructure for characterizing integrated photonic devices and components at both chip and wafer levels.
• Develop and execute robust testing procedures for component-level characterization.
• Automate test pipelines, including instrument configuration, data acquisition, processing, and analysis using scalable and well-tested software.
• Perform characterization using both room-temperature and cryogenic optical test setups;
• Analyze experimental data and provide feedback to design engineers to improve photonic device performance.
• Collaborate with design, packaging, and systems engineering teams to optimize testing methods and improve device performance.
• Develop and maintain a library of testing structures to support continuous platform improvements.
• Ensure high-quality documentation of testing procedures, automation workflows, and experimental results.

Qualifications:

• Master's or Ph.D. in Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 3 years of professional experience characterizing photonic integrated circuit (PIC) devices or equivalent experience.
• Experience programming in Python, MATLAB, or another general-purpose programming language for test automation.
• Experience with instrumentation and testing methods for integrated photonic devices;
• Strong data processing, visualization, and analytical skills.
• Hands-on experience with room-temperature optical test setups.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and teamwork skills.

Preferred:

• 5+ years of experience designing and characterizing integrated photonic devices.
• 3+ years of industry experience.
• Experience with free-space optics and imaging systems.
• Hands-on experience with cryogenic optical testing.
• Experience working with laser sources and fiber optic components.
• Strong programming skills for experimental automation and data analysis.
• Experience using version control systems such as Git.
• Familiarity with photonic integrated circuit fabrication processes and design constraints.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: $126,887 to $166,127 per year.
• Additional compensation may include performance bonus and equity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer matching;
• Unlimited paid time off and paid holidays.
• Parental and adoption leave.
• Legal insurance.
• Home technology stipend.
• Compensation is determined based on education, qualifications, experience, office location, market data, and internal equity.

Other Information:

• Work location is on-site in Boston, Massachusetts.
• Travel required is less than 10%.
• Job ID: 1632;
• Candidates will work within IonQ's Quantum Interconnect Division, developing testing infrastructure for next-generation quantum photonic technologies.
• The role involves close collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams focused on integrated photonics and quantum networking technologies.
• Employment is subject to U.S. export control regulations. Candidates may be required to verify U.S. Person status or obtain appropriate authorization where applicable.
• IonQ is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.