Quantum Device Characterization Engineer

About Qunnect

Qunnect is a dynamic, venture-backed startup in the heart of Brooklyn, NY. We build and deploy first-in-class hardware to transform existing telecommunication fiber infrastructure into quantum-secure networks for defense, intelligence, financial services, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.

Role Description

We're hiring a Characterization Engineer to take ownership of the end-to-end qualification process for our quantum devices. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on experience in quantum optics who thrives on precision testing, building robust experimental setups, and bridging the gap between R&D and product deployment. At Qunnect, our systems combine optics, atomic physics, and electronics. In this role, you’ll work at the intersection of these disciplines, collaborating closely with both our manufacturing and science teams to ensure every device meets the rigorous performance and quality standards demanded by real-world quantum networks.

This is an in-person role. As part of the role, you directly support installations and testing at select customer sites through occasional travel. You’ll help deploy Qunnect’s technologies into the global market with our specialized team turning quantum networking into a practical, deployed reality.

Tasks

Lead the implementation of quality assurance/control processes of assembled optical devices

Design and operate test setups for quantum devices

Qualify new builds coming off our assembly line before deployment

Develop and refine performance specs for each product line

Create test procedures, automation scripts, and data analysis pipelines

Identify performance drifts, degradation, or failure modes in both lab and deployed units

Collaborate with hardware/software/manufacturing teams in product reviews to close loop between test results and production improvements

Assist installation and service field engineering teams at customer sites.

Qualifications

Detail oriented with strong clerical and organizational skills

Strong mechanical aptitude and assembly skills

Be a self-starter, who will work independently on a variety of daily tasks

Openness to cross-training within the department to learn other skills and work processes

Hands-on lab experience working with optics, quantum light sources, single-photon detectors, or time-tagging systems

Experience with test instrumentation

Comfort scripting in Python for data analysis and test automation

Clear thinker, organized experimenter, and someone who gets satisfaction from proving something works, every time.

Preferred Qualifications

M.Sc. (Ph.D. optional) in experimental AMO/Quantum optics, or related field.

Salary Range: $100,000-125,000, commensurate with experience.

Please note that we do not expect candidates to possess all the above qualifications, we are willing to train!

At Qunnect, we offer a stimulating and collaborative work environment, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of networking innovation. Join our team and contribute to shaping the future of the industry. To apply for this position, please submit your resume to . We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially having you as a valued team member.

Qunnect is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Please note that pursuant to a government contract, this specific position requires US citizenship or permanent resident status.