Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer

Monarch Quantum· Engineering
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📍 San Diego, California, United StatesFull time

About this 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:

    • 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.
    • Contribute to strategic technology roadmaps and partner with leadership to align technical development with business goals.

Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • Minimum 15 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
  • Proven track record of architecting and delivering high-reliability photonic systems.
  • 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.

The expected annual salary range for this position is $160,000-$240,000.

As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch’s comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching
  • 20 paid time off (PTO) days per year
  • 13 paid company holidays
  • 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)


Monarch is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran status or any other characteristics protected under applicable federal, state and local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer position at Monarch Quantum?
The salary for this Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer role at Monarch Quantum is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer position at Monarch Quantum located?
This Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer role at Monarch Quantum is based in San Diego, California, United States. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer role at Monarch Quantum full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer role in the Engineering department at Monarch Quantum.
Which team or department does the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer at Monarch Quantum belong to?
This Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer position is part of the Engineering department at Monarch Quantum. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer position at Monarch Quantum?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to Monarch Quantum's official application portal hosted on workable where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer job at Monarch Quantum posted?
This Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer position at Monarch Quantum was posted on Jan 27, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Senior Principal Quantum Photonics Systems Engineer
Monarch Quantum
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