Lead Engineer - Laser Systems

About Xanadu:
At Xanadu, we are learners, innovators, researchers, collaborators, and problem solvers. We are creating something that has never been built before. What we are doing is extremely hard, the classic moon shot. Few people in their life will be able to be a part of something like this, where if we are successful, the technologies we develop will solve some of the world’s most challenging problems, and literally change the world. And that is something to be excited about!

Your role and responsibilities:
The Lead Engineer will architect and build the ultra-stable, low-noise laser engines powering the world’s first fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers, acting as both a system architect and a hands-on technical lead. This role is responsible for designing and validating the current laser subsystem, defining the long-term technical roadmap, and bridging the gap between prototyping and volume production to meet the requirements of the broader quantum computing architecture. In this function, you will have access to a state-of-the-art optics laboratory, custom integrated photonic devices, a team of scientists of engineers with diverse backgrounds, and a significant team budget. 

• Strategic systems architect: own the technical roadmap, ensure a full set of requirements exists for the subsystems and that it flows down to all components, develop comprehensive test strategy. As the system architect, ensure that the technical documentation is accurate and complete.
• Hands-on laboratory & integration lead: Personally oversee the experimental validation of critical hurdles. Act as the primary technical authority, coordinate the team to develop and execute a detailed research plan that will meet the subsystem requirements.
• Stability & control systems expert: Integrate control logic, locking electronics, and physical laser hardware to ensure robust performance. Define stability requirements for the laser front-end to ensure alignment with quantum computing architecture constraints.
• Product ownership: Develop a complete DfM/DfT/DfR strategy to guarantee that the laser subsystem research will transition into an industrial-grade solution. Develop and execute a suitable workflow for make-buy decisions.
• Cross functional team leadership: Coordinate with other subteams to ensure a smooth integration of the laser subsystem into the quantum computer system. Ensure all system interfaces are clearly documented. Own the development of clear hand-off packages with other teams: what is expected from them during development (e.g. firmware, electronics, mechanical), and what is delivered to them during system integration.
• Vendor strategy & relationship lead: Develop and implement a procurement pipeline with standardized requests for quote documentation and validation plans. In partnership with Xanadu's legal and procurement teams, negotiate high-stakes contracts, establish clear technical specifications, and ensure long-term supply chain viability with strategic partners,
• Risk management: Ensure timely delivery of necessary solutions despite challenging requirements. Deal with risk in the R&D roadmap in a systematic way to ensure no single points of failure for both technical and timeline issues. 

Basic qualifications and experience:

• 10+ years in high-performance photonics, with deep expertise in semiconductor lasers, optical amplification, and EO modulators.
• Proven experience managing the coupling between high-power subsystems, thermal management, and noise/stability requirements (specifically RIN and phase noise).
• Strong background in laser frequency stabilization, high-bandwidth control loops (feedback/servo), and RF/microwave engineering for pulsed optical systems.
• Demonstrated success in technical vendor management, particularly defining SOWs, navigating complex build-vs-buy decisions, and scaling supply chains for custom photonic components.
• Experience in photonic integrated circuit testing and deployment at scale.
• Proven track record in New Product Introduction (NPI) of complex optical systems, with a disciplined, data-driven approach to experimental validation, troubleshooting, and design-for-manufacturability.

Our values are important. They are fundamental and lay the foundation for culture at Xanadu. Learn more about our values here.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive, safe, and equitable culture and fostering an environment where our employees feel included, valued, and heard. We are committed to meeting the needs of all individuals and support a barrier-free workplace. Should you require accommodations at any point during the recruitment process please contact Recruiting at recruiting@xanadu.ai.

Please be advised that we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the screening and assessment of applicants for this position. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how