Location: Chicago, IL

Company: memQ

Position Overview

At memQ, we are building extensible quantum networks that will unlock the real power of quantum computing! Recognized as the leaders in extending and connecting quantum systems at scale, we sit at the dynamic intersection of quantum physics, materials science, photonics, and information systems. Powered by a world-class, diverse team of experts, we foster a high-energy, collaborative environment where our groundbreaking photonic integrated circuits and software deliver the essential scalability solutions quantum systems need today.

We are moving fast with an ambitious hardware portfolio, which includes our quantum network interface controllers (QNIC), quantum memory modules (QMM), quantum control systems (QCS), and our extensible distributed quantum compiler software (xDQC) – and are actively deploying these with industry-leading partners and customers. To drive this next chapter of growth, we are seeking a driven Photonic Test Engineer to join our growing team at memQ. In this role, you will work within the test and measurement team and use automated tools for fast chip characterization, providing the mission-critical feedback that allows us to scale our products. You will build the code infrastructure that drives our equipment and establish the data pipelines that inform our next generation of designs.

Key Responsibilities

• Automated Characterization: Operate and automate high-throughput wafer and die-level testing stations. You will develop scripts to drive instrumentation (lasers, VNAs, detectors) for characterizing passive and active photonic devices.

• Scalable Test Systems: Collaborate with external test and packaging partners to design and implement robust manufacturing test processes that can scale from R&D samples to mass production.

• R&D to Manufacturing Bridge: Work closely with Photonic Design Engineers and Quantum Hardware Engineers to align on key performance metrics (KPIs). You will translate these metrics into concrete Plans of Record (POR) and Designs of Experiment (DoE).

• Tooling & Infrastructure: Implement custom optical toolsets and measurement techniques specifically for quantum PICs (e.g., low-temperature compatibility, high-Q cavity analysis, and non-telecom wavelengths).

• Data Pipelines: Manage data processing pipelines to handle large volumes of characterization data. You will produce automated reports and statistical analyses that provide the design team with actionable feedback for iterative improvement.

• Continuous Improvement: Continuously refine testing protocols to reduce measurement time and increase accuracy, ensuring our testing capabilities keep pace with our device scaling.

Required Qualifications

• Education: B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related field.

• Experience: 2+ years of experience in a laboratory setting or semiconductor test environment.

• Technical Skills:

• Automation: Proficiency in Python for data analysis (Pandas, NumPy).

• Hardware: Hands-on experience with experimental test equipment (e.g., tunable lasers, OSAs, polarization controllers) and wafer probers.

• Analysis: Ability to process large datasets to extract device metrics (propagation loss, Q-factor, bandwidth).

• Collaboration: Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally between internal research teams and external manufacturing partners.

Bonus Points

• Experience with databases or metadata encoding (JSON) for managing measurement data.

• Experience with Python for for instrument control (PyVISA, SCPI)

• Background in cryogenic testing or characterization of quantum systems.

• Familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and JMP data analysis.

• Previous experience bridging the gap between bench-top characterization and automated wafer-level testing.

Position Parameters

• Location: Hyde Park, Chicago.

• Reporting to: Lead, Test and Measurement.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives

• Equity options in a high-growth quantum tech company

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans

• Opportunities for professional development in one of the most innovative fields in technology