Engineer - R&D

Vector Atomic· Science
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📍 Pleasanton, California, United StatesFull time💰 USD 110K–135K

About this role

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you’re excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you.

We are actively seeking versatile R&D Engineers to build ultra-precise quantum devices for autonomous/GPS-free navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This is a jack-of-all-trades role demanding a skilled and flexible engineer ready to thrive in a dynamic R&D environment. While the ideal candidate will possess a strong subset of the required skills, a willingness and capability to rapidly learn new ones are crucial.

What You’ll Do

  • Build and test optical, electrical, or vacuum systems
  • Systems integration of electronics controller with sensors
  • Set-up test equipment; automate data collection

What We're Looking For:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field plus 2-5 years relevant work experience.
  • To comply with the 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 communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal.

Hands-on experience with several of the following:

  • Lasers and optics, electronics, and/or vacuum systems in an R&D environment
  • Laser and optical system prototyping
  • Electronic test instrumentation such including oscilloscopes, pulse generators, power supplies and voltmeters
  • Experience designing, building, and working with electromechanical assemblies.
  • System integration, bring-up, and debugging
  • Basic bring-up of PCB boards
  • Electromechanical design of custom/semi-custom enclosures for electronic assemblies that address issues of shielding, grounding and thermal constraints
  • Design and build of custom cabling and interface boards
  • Computer-aided design
  • Basic machining skill

Vector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer 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 approximate base salary range for this position is $110,000 to $135,000 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Engineer - R&D role at Vector Atomic?
The listed salary for this Engineer - R&D position at Vector Atomic is USD 110K–135K. This is an Full time role.
Where is the Engineer - R&D position at Vector Atomic located?
This Engineer - R&D role at Vector Atomic is based in Pleasanton, 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 Engineer - R&D role at Vector Atomic full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Engineer - R&D role in the Science department at Vector Atomic.
Which team or department does the Engineer - R&D at Vector Atomic belong to?
This Engineer - R&D position is part of the Science department at Vector Atomic. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Engineer - R&D position at Vector Atomic?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to Vector Atomic's official application portal hosted on workable where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Engineer - R&D job at Vector Atomic posted?
This Engineer - R&D position at Vector Atomic was posted on Apr 21, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Engineer - R&D
Vector Atomic · 💰 USD 110K–135K
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You'll be redirected to Vector Atomic's official application page on workable.