Associate Engineer - Electrical

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you're excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.Help turn breakthrough quantum physics into robust products. At Vector Atomic, you'll design ultra-low-noise, low-power analog and mixed-signal electronics that enable GPS-free navigation, precision timing, and high-bandwidth communications. You'll own designs from concept to production in a fast-moving, lab-centric environment.RequirementsWhat You'll DoCollaborate with physicists, firmware, optics, and mechanical teams to architect electronics for quantum instruments and precision INSDesign, simulate, and validate low-noise analog front ends, data-converter paths, and mixed-signal control loopsCreate schematics and perform placement/routing in Altium for complex, space-constrained PCBAsBuild robust power trees and POL supplies with tight ripple, transient, and efficiency targetsApply signal integrity and EMI/EMC best practices: grounding, return paths, filtering, shielding, and layout constraintsBring up, characterize, and debug boards using oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, SMUs, and logic analyzersWrite basic automation scripts (Python) for characterization and data loggingDocument requirements, design notes, test plans, and manufacturing handoff; support prototype-to-production transitionWhat We're Looking ForBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field plus 0-2 years of hands-on hardware experience. Significant involvement in Senior Design projects or technical extracurriculars (e.g., Robotics, Formula SAE) is highly valuedTo comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asyleesComfortable in a lab environment; clear written and verbal communication Required Expertise (you don't need all to apply):Analog/mixed-signal design fundamentals: op-amps, references, filters, instrumentation ampsPower basics: buck/boost/LDO regulators, ripple/transient control, protection (OV/OC/UV)Data converters: integrating precision ADCs/DACs; sampling and anti-aliasing fundamentalsNoise and precision: 1/f and thermal noise, PSRR/CMRR, grounding and shielding practicesPCB design in Altium: schematics, footprint/library use, placement and routing for signal integritySPICE simulation (e.g., LTspice) for verification and tolerance analysisLab skills: oscilloscopes, supplies, DMMs; methodical bring-up and debugging Nice to have (great to learn on the job):Signal integrity/EMI: impedance control, stackup selection, crosstalk and return-path managementPower specialization: sequencing, current sensing, thermal management, low-power techniquesRF/microwave basics: LO distribution, mixers, phase noise, shieldingEmbedded familiarity: I2C/SPI/UART bring-up, reading datasheets; basic Python for test automationFPGA/MCU board design and high-speed interfaces (e.g., LVDS)DFM/DFT, manufacturing processes, and reliability/environmental testingBenefitsVector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:Platinum-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 kitchenPay RangeThe approximate base salary range for this position is $95,000 to $120,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.