PsiQuantum’s mission is to build the first useful quantum computers—machines capable of delivering the breakthroughs the field has long promised. Since our founding in 2016, our singular focus has been to build and deploy million-qubit, fault-tolerant quantum systems.
Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most advanced supercomputers or AI systems will never reach. Their impact will span energy, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials, and other foundational industries.
Our architecture and approach is based on silicon photonics. By leveraging the advanced semiconductor manufacturing industry—including partners like GlobalFoundries—we use the same high-volume processes that already produce billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics. Photonics offers natural advantages for scale: photons don’t feel heat, are immune to electromagnetic interference, and integrate with existing cryogenic cooling and standard fiber-optic infrastructure.
In 2024, PsiQuantum announced government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia, and Chicago, Illinois. These initiatives reflect a growing recognition that quantum computing will be strategically and economically defining—and that now is the time to scale.
PsiQuantum also develops the algorithms and software needed to make these systems commercially valuable. Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies—including Lockheed Martin, Mercedes-Benz, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Mitsubishi Chemical—to prepare quantum solutions for real-world impact.
Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. It represents a fundamental shift—and a path to mastering challenges that cannot be solved any other way. The potential is enormous, and we have a clear path to make it real.
Come join us.
Job Summary:
PsiQuantum is seeking a Photon Sources Engineer to support the development of our rapidly maturing photon sources platform. In this role you will be responsible for exploring long-term strategies to guide the development of photon sources and accompanying technologies, working closely with the rest of the team and other device designers. You will play a fundamental role in the down-selection of future photon source technologies by combining innovative ideas with experimental data and rigorous model closure.
Responsibilities:
- Designing and maintaining the computational tools required for modelling photon-pair sources.
- Model and optimise nonlinear optical systems, validating these models using experimental measurements.
- Collaborate with designers to identify clear paths forward to improved device performance.
- Generate detailed reports based on experimental findings, providing evidence to direct the development roadmap of photon source technologies.
- Designing new experimental techniques used for specialized photon source / material characterization.
- Assess the impact of photon source performance / requirements on the infrastructure of large-scale photonic systems, identifying key technological gaps and how they might be overcome.
Experience/Qualifications:
Experience:
- PhD in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Strong experimental and theoretical background in integrated optics and nonlinear device characterisation.
- Proficiency in Python for experiment automation and data analysis.
- Proficiency in the use COMSOL/Lumerical for the modelling of complex optical systems.
- Hands-on experience with complex optical measurement setups.
- Some experience with fabrication would be useful for influencing design decisions.
Desired Skills:
- Knowledge of quantum optics and nonlinear optical systems.
- Familiarity with the design-challenges of a photon-generation platform.
- Experience with novel integrated photonic material platforms.
- Experience in leading technical projects.
- Proven experience in computational thinking.
- Proven skill in Applied Physics.
- Experience with Mathematica would be beneficial but is not required.
PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.
Note: PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to recruiting@psiquantum.com.
We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.
The ranges below reflect the target ranges for a new hire base salary. Actual compensation may vary outside of these ranges and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
Daresbury, United Kingdom
£60,000 - £71,000 GBP
Photon Source Engineer employer: PsiQuantum
PsiQuantum is an exceptional employer located in Daresbury, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among talented professionals. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides opportunities for continuous learning and development in the cutting-edge field of quantum computing, alongside competitive salaries and equity options. Join us to be part of a pioneering team that is shaping the future of technology in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Photon Source Engineer
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Photon Source Engineer role you’re after at PsiQuantum.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at PsiQuantum a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at PsiQuantum.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Photon Source Engineer at PsiQuantum, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Photon Source Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at PsiQuantum a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to PsiQuantum specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at PsiQuantum
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with PsiQuantum, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like PsiQuantum want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
