Automation Engineer, Optical Packaging

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Automation Engineer, Optical Packaging. Location: Milpitas, California, United States

The team is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to lead the development of advanced automation systems for optical packaging and precision alignment processes; This role bridges software, hardware, optics, and robotics, supporting PsiQuantum’s goal of scalable quantum hardware production.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and deploy automation software for real-time control of precision optical systems and motion platforms.
• Create algorithms and motion sequences for sub-micron optical alignment, calibration, and measurement.
• Integrate piezoelectric nano-positioners, sensors, and cameras into automated workflows;
• Build scalable automation frameworks for testing, validation, and performance tracking.
• Collaborate with optical, mechanical, and systems engineers to define hardware-software interfaces.
• Lead technical discussions, code reviews, and guide junior engineers;
• Ensure system reliability and software quality in both R&D and production settings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in automation software engineering, motion control, or hardware integration.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, or C# for real-time system control.
• Experience with nano-positioning systems (PI, Aerotech, Newport) and precision actuators.
• Knowledge of control systems, sensor integration, and feedback loops;
• Familiarity with optical and high-precision metrology systems.
• Experience with LabVIEW, MATLAB, or similar platforms for automation and data acquisition.

Preferred:

• Experience in optical alignment, interferometry, or beam steering.
• Knowledge of vision-guided alignment using OpenCV or similar libraries.
• Familiarity with automation frameworks for system-level testing;
• Experience with cleanroom or vacuum-compatible automation systems.
• Strong documentation and cross-functional communication skills.
• Experience with Jira and Arena PLM.

Benefits and Employment:

• Competitive salary between $156,000 and $200,000 USD, depending on location and experience.
• Full-time position with eligibility for equity and benefits;
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge quantum photonic systems in collaboration with leading researchers and engineers.
• Inclusive and equal employment environment.

PsiQuantum encourages applications from all qualified individuals and does not discriminate based on any protected characteristics; Candidates are required to include the word “purple” in their cover letter.