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# Principal Subsystem Build and Test Engineer

- **Company:** Atom Computing
- **Location:** United States
- **Experience:** Experienced
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Quantum Computing, Systems Integration, Visual Systems, Build Process
- **Published:** October 19, 2026
- **Apply:** https://startup.jobs/principal-subsystem-build-and-test-engineer-atom-computing-10506874

## About the Role

* BS in Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience. Advanced degree preferred.
 * 8+ years of experience building, integrating, testing, or developing precision optical, scientific, or similarly complex hardware.
 * 3+ years of experience mentoring engineers and technicians in an integration, manufacturing, or test environment., * Extensive hands-on experience assembling, aligning, integrating, and testing precision optical systems.
 * Experience working with electronic/RF, vacuum, mechanical, or electromechanical subsystems.
 * Experience taking first-of-a-kind hardware through build, test, troubleshooting, and transition into repeatable production.
 * Practical knowledge of optical assembly, alignment, cleanliness, bonding coordination, and the measurements used to verify precision optical subsystems.
 * Working knowledge of electronic and RF assembly, chassis and cable checkout, and vacuum and mechanical build requirements.
 * Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to distinguish design issues from process, material, equipment, and workmanship problems.
 * Experience working with released drawings, work instructions, inspection criteria, test procedures, calibrated equipment, and nonconformance processes.
 * Desire to coach engineers and technicians and distinguish process problems from design issues.
 * Experience with quantum computing, atomic physics, advanced photonics, aerospace, semiconductor, scientific instrumentation, or similarly complex hardware preferred.
 * Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.

## Description

* Lead the build, integration, and testing of optical, vacuum/mechanical, RF, electronic, and cable assemblies.
 * Manage and develop a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians.
 * Partner with Engineering on first-of-a-kind builds and translate designs into practical assembly and test methods.
 * Work with Manufacturing Engineering and Quality to establish repeatable build processes, work instructions, fixtures, and test procedures.
 * Provide hands-on technical direction for optical alignment, precision assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
 * Diagnose build and test failures and work with Engineering to identify design, process, material, or workmanship issues.
 * Ensure required materials, documentation, qualified personnel, and calibrated equipment are available before builds begin.
 * Maintain accurate build, inspection, and test records and release verified subsystems to System Integration & Test (SI&T).
 * Track build progress, first-pass acceptance, rework, and cycle time and use repeat-build findings to improve processes and fixtures.
 * Oversee approved subsystem measurements and acceptance tests, including optical characterization, electronic checkout, and applicable mechanical or vacuum verification.
 * Collaborate with leadership to plan personnel, workspace, fixtures, and shared equipment across parallel build efforts.