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# Principal Photonics Systems Engineer

- **Company:** Monarch
- **Location:** San Diego, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $165,000.0 - $200,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Firmware, Data Processing
- **Published:** July 28, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.dice.com/job-detail/328a37de-b2d8-42bf-b90d-807fd0df9425

## About the Role

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Principal Photonics Systems Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self-starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows, * Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).

 * Minimum 5 years of experience designing and testing complex photonic or laser-based systems.

Skills:

Demonstrated expertise in:

 * Narrow linewidth and frequency-stabilized laser systems
 * Low-noise electronic controls and servo systems
 * Optical system modeling, alignment, and noise analysis
 * Experimental design, execution, and troubleshooting
 * Data processing and analysis
 * Optical and electronic laboratory test equipment and metrology

Excellent communication and leadership skills with demonstrated ability to drive technical decisions across teams.

Experience in quantum systems, precision metrology, or related emerging technologies is a strong plus.
Startup Mindset:

 * You're creative, flexible, and eager to wear multiple hats.
 * You're passionate about building systems from the ground up and comfortable with ambiguity and change.

## Description

* Provide technical leadership and system-level direction on the architecture, design, and integration of advanced laser systems for quantum technologies.
 * Define and guide the development of core photonics and control technologies, including laser stabilization, narrow linewidth sources, and low-noise electronic control systems.
 * Lead efforts to achieve ultra-low noise performance and exceptional reliability through rigorous design, modeling, and experimental validation.
 * Collaborate closely with optical, electronic, firmware, and mechanical engineers
 * Provide technical expertise to for the development of and maintenance system-level requirements, specifications, and performance validation protocols.
 * Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.


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