Staff Engineer - Mechanical

Vector Atomic is building quantum hardware to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. In 2025, we joined IonQ [NYSE: IONQ], the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier – delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security.

Our scientists, engineers, software developers, and operations professionals collaborate to deliver real-world solutions. We value ingenuity, diverse skillsets, and teamwork. Every team member can make an immediate impact while growing professionally. Join us to build breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.

As a Staff Mechanical Engineer at Vector Atomic, you will be instrumental in advancing the next generation of quantum technologies. This hands-on role involves designing opto-mechanical and vacuum systems that are crucial for quantum sensors, with a strong focus on personal responsibility and teamwork. 

Location: This role is based onsite at our office in Pleasanton, CA (Bay Area)

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:  

• Spearhead the mechanical architecture of quantum systems by bridging the gap between theoretical physics requirements and manufacturable engineering solutions, ensuring design scalability across the product roadmap.
• Drive the development of next-generation quantum hardware by establishing rigorous design standards and utilizing advanced simulation (FEA/CFD) to mitigate risks in novel component performance.
• Lead the systems-level integration of high-precision optomechanical and electromechanical assemblies, defining the tolerance budgets and alignment strategies necessary for enterprise-grade quantum reliability.
• Govern UHV assembly and testing workflows by implementing standardized ultra-high vacuum protocols and designing modular testbeds that accelerate the validation cycle for the entire engineering team.
• Optimize the engineering ecosystem by overseeing the PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) strategy and cultivating strategic vendor partnerships to de-risk the supply chain for specialized materials.
• Champion technical excellence by auditing build documentation and testing results, mentoring junior engineers on best practices, and ensuring all custom hardware meets stringent qualification benchmarks.

Basic Qualifications

• 8+ years of professional experience in Aerospace & Defense R&D or similar field.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline 
• 5+ years in CAD design proficiency, particularly in SolidWorks.

• Experience transitioning prototypes to small-batch production.
• Comfortable working in a lab environment.
• Knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
• Familiarity with material science relative to thermal and mechanical properties.
• Understanding of GD&T and tolerance analysis.
• Proficient in creating mechanical drawings in line with ANSI Y14.5 standards.
• Keen attention to detail in all engineering tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently on assigned activities while collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.
• To comply with US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees and asylees.
• Ability to work onsite full-time at our office in Pleasanton, CA (SF Bay Area)

Preferred Experience (several of the following)

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline 
• Experience with SolidWorks PDM.
• Knowledge of FEA with a focus on thermal and vibration analysis.
• Experience in packaging and assembly of lasers and photonic devices.
• Familiarity with system integration across various sub-disciplines.

Benefits

Vector Atomic offers competitive compensation and benefits including:

• Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
• Health and Dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer 401(k) contributions
• 20 days of paid time off & 11 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Fully stocked kitchen

Pay Range

The base salary range for this position is $142,000 to $177,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits.  It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.

Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.

Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.