Quandela is a global leader in quantum computing, designing, building, and delivering cutting-edge quantum solutions for research and industry. Its offerings include the most energy-efficient quantum computers for data centers, full-stack quantum computing solutions accessible via the cloud, and algorithm access services for academic and industrial customers. Following a pragmatic, step-by-step roadmap, Quandela has been deploying industrial-grade systems since 2023 while developing future generations of fault-tolerant quantum computers capable of scaling through the integration of thousands of photonic components. Quandela is committed to making quantum computing accessible to all in order to address the most complex industrial and societal challenges.
Learn more at: Quandela | Leading Photonic Quantum Computing Solutions
About this position:
You will join the QPU Prototyping team, which develops and integrates the optical systems at the heart of Quandela's quantum processors, turning advanced R&D experiments into operational hardware.
We are looking for a Senior Optical Systems Engineer to take ownership of a major optical development work package within our next-generation QPU programme.
Your main challenge will be to maximise optical transmission and system performance, from experimental characterisation and precision alignment to qualification and integration. You'll tackle complex optical challenges, defining the right experimental approaches and driving solutions from investigation to validation.
You will also coordinate technical activities involving several engineers and scientists, ensuring the delivery of critical milestones.
This is a predominantly hands-on experimental role, combining deep technical expertise with project ownership.
The role combines approximately 80% hands-on experimental work and 20% technical coordination, with no initial requirement for formal people management.
How you'll grow:
First 3 months: Become familiar with Quandela's optical systems, experimental infrastructure and qualification objectives.
Within 6 months: Take ownership of optical characterisation and optimisation activities, coordinating experimental work and technical milestones.
Within 12 months: Lead the technical delivery of complex optical developments, with increasing autonomy over planning and resources.
Longer term: Potential progression towards technical team leadership as the team grows.
We are looking for an experienced optical engineer or experimental scientist with strong hands-on expertise and the ability to drive complex technical projects.
Relevant backgrounds include fibered optical systems, laser systems, experimental optics, and optical metrology. Academic and industrial experience are equally welcome.
Technical & system integration
Project & operational ownership
Quantum computing experience is not required. What matters is your ability to understand complex optical systems, solve experimental challenges and deliver results.
Join a multidisciplinary team developing the optical systems for next-generation quantum processors, with substantial experimental ownership and opportunities for technical progression.
At Quandela, we value diverse scientific and engineering backgrounds, practical curiosity and the ability to learn from different fields.
Whether your experience comes from an academic laboratory, industrial R&D or a different area of experimental optics, we'd love to hear from you if you enjoy tackling demanding technical challenges and turning experimental work into reliable results.
Quandela specialises in the production of photon-based quantum computing and cloud solutions, enabling organisations to achieve their quantum transformation.
