Senior Optical Research Engineer (Quantum Networking)

Location: Bothell, Washington, United States; based in the Bothell office with the option to work remotely a few days per week

Salary: $114,750–$150,237 base salary per year, plus bonus, equity, and benefits

Company

hirify.global develops integrated quantum computing, networking, sensing, and security platforms for customers across industries including drug discovery, materials science, finance, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense.

What you will do

• Design, simulate, and test quantum networking applications.
• Implement automated quantum tomography protocols to characterize networked quantum-state fidelity.
• Validate quantum networking protocols involving quantum communication, transduction, and links between different qubit modalities.
• Collaborate with systems engineering to transition quantum networking protocols and interconnects from R&D into products.
• Derive system-level requirements from experimental results and work with product and engineering teams to realize them in operational systems.
• Develop quantum networking metrologies for overall network performance and individual optical components.

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional experience in optical engineering, photonics, or applied physics focused on precision optical systems.
• Master’s degree in optical sciences, physics, electrical engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proficiency in data analysis, such as Python, and instrument control, such as LabView or Simulink.
• Hands-on experience with ultra-stable interferometry, fiber optics, and precision alignment of free-space optical systems.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for complex electro-optical systems, plus a theoretical background in quantum optics and quantum information.
• Access to export-controlled technology may require U.S. Person status, an applicable license, or a confirmed license exception; some government-contract work requires U.S. Person status.

Nice to have

• Ph.D. in physics or optical engineering focused on quantum optics or quantum information science.
• Experience with Zemax, Code V, or Lumerical.
• Experience with quantum transduction, frequency conversion, FPGA-based time-tagging, coincidence-counting electronics, laser-frequency stabilization, nonlinear optics, or PICs.

Culture & Benefits

• Cross-functional environment emphasizing autonomy, productivity, and respect.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Matching 401(k), unlimited PTO, and paid holidays.
• Parental and adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend.
• Up to 25% domestic travel.