Manufacturing Engineer

Overview In this role you will help transition quantum optical clock systems from lab prototypes to scalable production. You’ll own critical manufacturing steps for photonic and opto-mechanical assemblies, focusing on automation, repeatability, and yield. You’ll collaborate with physicists and hardware teams to convert cutting-edge lab tech into robust products. This is a hands-on, cross-functional role in a fast-paced startup environment with a strong impact on production readiness and quality. You’ll contribute to building scalable, high-precision quantum systems that advance navigation, timing, and sensing. Compensation / BenefitsPlatinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)Health and Dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Employer 401(k) contributions20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidaysPaid parental leaveFully stocked kitchen ResponsibilitiesDevelop and scale manufacturing processes for quantum photonics systems (lasers, fiber assemblies, opto-mechanical subsystems).Design and implement automated assembly, test, and inspection processes for high-precision optical systems.Drive DFx/DFM in collaboration with R&D and physics teams.Lead new product introduction (NPI), turning lab prototypes into repeatable production builds.Create and maintain production tooling, fixtures, and automated test platforms.Reduce process variability in optical alignment and packaging steps.Implement data-driven process control (SPC) and continuous improvement.Troubleshoot complex integration issues across optics, electronics, vacuum, and controls.Document SOPs, travelers, and work instructions in a dynamic environment.Evaluate and qualify vendors for precision components and subassemblies. Key requirementsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) and 3+ years in manufacturing engineering or hardware development in deep-tech environments.Hands-on experience with precision assembly (optics, fiber alignment, micro-mechanical systems) and bonding/epoxy processes.Experience developing or deploying process automation (robotics, motion stages, machine vision, automated test systems).Strong debugging and root cause analysis in complex physical systems.Comfortable in a fast-paced, ambiguous startup environment.U.S. citizenship or eligible status in line with export control laws.collaborationproblem-solvingadaptabilityprocess automation (robotics, motion stages, machine vision, automated test systems)design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA)statistical process control (SPC)