Optical Bench Alignment Technician

IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ’s newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services, and AstraZeneca achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance.

Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ has operations in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Washington, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across land, sea, air, and space. IonQ is making quantum platforms more accessible and impactful than ever before.  

The Optical Alignment Technician plays a critical role in the production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This position is responsible for the precision alignment of optical components to enable high-performance data links under stringent performance requirements.

The role requires excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow and improve detailed work instructions. The technician will perform alignment, inspection, and quality control activities, while working closely with mechanical and optical engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and continuously improve production processes.

• →Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and assemblies
• →Follow and execute detailed work instructions and alignment procedures
• →Support the development and improvement of assembly and alignment processes
• →Perform inspection, measurement, and quality control of optical assemblies
• →Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot alignment and performance issues
• →Maintain accurate documentation for traceability and production tracking
• →Handle sensitive optical hardware in accordance with cleanroom and contamination control standards
• →Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment

• Proven experience in optical assembly or optical instrument manufacturing, preferably in aerospace, photonics, medical devices, or precision equipment
• Strong experience with precision alignment tools such as autocollimators, interferometers, lasers, microscopes, and optical power meters
• Excellent manual dexterity and precision handling of delicate optical components
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly procedures
• Familiarity with cleanroom operations, ESD control, and contamination-sensitive environments
• Understanding of optomechanical interfaces, including lens mounts, kinematic mounts, and alignment strategies
• Experience with optical cleaning procedures and handling techniques
• Familiarity with measurement and inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, torque tools)

• Experience in an assembly, integration, or optical alignment environment
• Ability to follow complex technical procedures with high accuracy
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Experience with quality control and compliance processes
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, data entry systems, basic Linux familiarity preferred)
• Knowledge of ESD and laser safety procedures
• Ability to work effectively in cleanroom environments
• Strong written communication skills

• 2–5 years of experience in aerospace, optical communications, photonics, or precision optics manufacturing
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience with optical alignment techniques, bench-top setups, and complex optical systems
• Experience with optical bonding and adhesives
• Experience in production environments and process improvement
• Familiarity with advanced metrology tools such as interferometers, shearing interferometers, and infrared sensors

• Extremely detail-oriented with a rigorous and disciplined mindset
• Strong documentation and traceability discipline
• Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams
• High reliability, accountability, and ownership
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Mission-driven and team-oriented mindset

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!