Monarch Quantum · 6 days ago
Principal Optical Engineer Level 4
San Diego, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$100K/yr - $150K/yr
2+ years expMonarch Quantum is a fast-paced startup seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to build a strong foundation for their team. The role involves executing complex engineering tasks, driving innovation in optical design, and supporting business development efforts.
Consumer Electronics
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Work independently and in a team while over communicating with the manager, project engineer, and the teammates
Execute complex engineering tasks involving planning, preparation, data/information collection, and analysis and decision-making in a process involving peer reviews and documentation of the results
Use tenacity, patience, self-discipline, and passion for excellence to assure accuracy of execution schedule, data quality/integrity, conformance to company best practices, clarity in communication, and documentation
Use every opportunity to grow competency through mentorship, curiosity, communication, exposure, and initiative
Drive innovation in modeling, design, analysis, and alignment methods to support product roadmap
Perform laser system architecture trade studies with complex and interdependent performance requirements
Support business development with architecture concepts, feasibility analysis, and white paper writing
Support project engineering with project scope, schedule, and risk analysis
Qualification
Required
This position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C 1324b(a)(3)
A bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience, ideally within a startup or technology company
Extensive expertise in various optical engineering topics, coupled with a solid comprehension of the standard curriculum for optical engineering degrees
In-depth knowledge of optical modeling techniques, including ray tracing, wave propagation, and electromagnetic solvers
Familiarity with laser beam propagation and the effects of optical movement and rotation on a beam's near-field, far-field, beam quality, and efficiency of fiber coupling
Ability to design according to specifications: strategizing design efforts to meet a series of unique requirements, identifying the most effective analysis methods for each, and creating as well as validating new design and analysis approaches
Capability to assess optical layouts for standard performance, manufacturability, and associated risks
Competence in arranging laser modules using optical design software
Thorough understanding of how to quantitatively define an optic, including material properties, surface prescriptions, surface irregularities, roughness, mechanical constraints, coatings, power handling, environmental considerations, and inspection methods
Proficient in tolerance analysis methodologies for component manufacturing
Knowledge of fiber optics relevant to high-power continuous wave laser systems, including multi-mode, single-mode, polarization-maintaining, step index, photonic crystal fibers, and endcaps
Proven track record in successfully completing engineering tasks, utilizing design software (such as Ansys Zemax OpticStudio, Photon Engineering FRED, or Lambda Research OSLO preferred), alongside quantitative analysis and programming tools (like Python), instrumentation and measurement, part fabrication or procurement, integration and testing, data collection, and documentation
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching
20 paid time off (PTO) days per year
13 paid company holidays
9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)
Company
Monarch Quantum
We’re an integrated photonics company in California building the light engines that power the next era of quantum technology — from advanced computing to precision sensing.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase