> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4563968-principal-system-integration-test-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4563968-principal-system-integration-test-lead). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal System Integration & Test Lead

- **Company:** Atom Computing
- **Location:** Allenspark, CO, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $200,000 - $230,000
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Integration, Diagnostic Tools
- **Published:** November 4, 2026
- **Apply:** https://find.jobs/jobs-near-me/apply/ats-redirect/?id=3051467035-2

## About the Role

* PhD in physics, applied physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline, or comparable professional experience.
 * 10+ years of experience in experimental AMO physics, quantum hardware, or precision laser-system integration.
 * 3+ years providing technical leadership on multidisciplinary teams, with demonstrated responsibility for integration readiness, complex fault isolation, and laboratory execution., * Strong understanding of neutral-atom quantum computers, including atom trapping, optical addressing, coherent control, and readout.
 * Hands-on capability in optical alignment, laser stability diagnostics, vacuum interfaces, and synchronized RF and control systems.
 * Practical AMO knowledge, including laser-atom interactions and laser cooling and trapping, sufficient to resolve integration issues directly with experimental physicists.
 * Ability to interpret diagnostic data, evaluate automated checkout methods, and isolate hardware or software-interface faults. Laboratory automation experience is preferred.
 * Proven technical leadership and readiness-review discipline, with a record of mentoring colleagues toward qualification while preserving the separate QE acceptance gate.
 * Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.

## Description

* Own whole-system integration across optics, laser delivery, vacuum interfaces, radio-frequency (RF) controls, timing, and instrument software for neutral-atom quantum computers.
 * Apply AMO knowledge to define hardware-readiness checks. Agree integration, alignment, and handoff criteria with QEs and Systems Engineering.
 * Work alongside QEs on first-of-a-kind systems to establish repeatable integration sequences, alignment methods, diagnostics, and recovery procedures.
 * Perform and guide system-level optical alignment, laser-delivery checks, controls checkout, and applicable safety checks before atom-based verification begins.
 * Mentor and train integration engineers and technicians. Define the qualification path for new team members, and advise leadership on staffing and on scheduling shared instruments across concurrent builds.
 * Lead cross-subsystem troubleshooting. Work with laser, controls, subsystem, and QE specialists to resolve hardware and interface problems.
 * Support hardware corrections during QE testing. Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to reduce alignment rework and shorten repeat-build cycle time.