Staff Quantum Physicist, Hardware Systems Lead

Help Infleqtion build the future of quantum in Illinois. We are on a mission to commercialize atom-based quantum technologies that deliver orders-of-magnitude improvements in sensing and computing applications. As a deep-tech startup, we embrace a results-driven, fast-paced, and customer-focused approach to innovation. We are deploying a neutral-atom quantum computer in Chicago and are seeking a leader to build, manage, and develop the team that will bring it to life. You will lead the hardware team’s technical execution and people’s development. You will collaborate with our facilities and project management personnel to help the new team succeed at our new Chicago quantum hardware lab. Your primary responsibility will be to enable a talented team to succeed. You will set up technical priorities, shape and ratify high-impact technical decisions, coach and develop team members, and create an environment where physicists and engineers can do their best work. You will also partner with experts across Infleqtion to advance our neutral-atom quantum computing systems. We value demonstrated people leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to deliver through a team above any single technical specialization. A strong scientific or engineering foundation is essential, along with the curiosity and credibility to lead experts working on complex quantum systems. For candidates excited to make Chicago their next home, we are willing to provide relocation assistance for the right candidate. Role and Responsibilities This is a quantum hardware leadership and people-management role with technical oversight. You will be accountable for team performance, employee development, and execution at our new Chicago lab, while remaining close enough to the technical work to guide decisions and remove obstacles. Responsibilities may evolve as the effort grows, and the program needs to change. Lead the Chicago Quantum Systems Team, Guide Technical Development, and Deliver Results - Lead the hardware team launching Infleqtion’s Chicago quantum computer. Establish and maintain effective working practices and operational readiness, and reinforce Infleqtion’s culture of accountability, inclusion, scientific rigor, and open communication. - Manage up to six direct reports, setting clear expectations and providing regular feedback, performance management, coaching, and career development. - Help hire and onboard physicists and engineers, building a team with complementary strengths. - Represent the Chicago hardware team within Infleqtion and coordinate its work with the Chicago quantum software team and across the broader Computing organization. - Lead the team’s development, integration, commissioning, and operation of neutral-atom quantum computing systems, drawing on specialists’ expertise to guide technical decisions and improve processor performance, including gate fidelity, stability, availability, and reliability. - Ensure the team uses rigorous approaches to experimentation, validation, troubleshooting, and system operation. - Contribute to technical roadmaps, proposals, intellectual property, and external technical discussions. - Participate directly in technical problem-solving when needed, while maintaining primary focus on leading and developing the team. - Work closely with project managers to translate program goals into clear priorities, achievable milestones, staffing needs, and coordinated work plans; identify and track risks and resolve obstacles. Requirements - Demonstrated success managing and developing technical teams, including direct responsibility for goal setting, performance feedback, coaching, and career growth. - Experience leading complex experimental hardware projects from ambiguous objectives to measurable results. - Ability to build trust, delegate effectively, address challenges constructively, and bring together people with different areas of expertise. - Strong planning and execution skills, including prioritizing work, managing competing demands, and coordinating across disciplines. - Clear communication with both specialist and non-specialist audiences. - A strong technical foundation in quantum physics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics or a related field, sufficient to guide technical discussions and evaluate tradeoffs. - A PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline, or equivalent professional experience; typically, five or more years of relevant post-PhD experience or comparable experience leading complex scientific or engineering systems. We recognize that strong leaders bring different technical backgrounds. Candidates do not need expertise in every subsystem listed below; the ability to lead specialists, ask thoughtful questions, and support sound technical decisions is essential. It Is a Plus If You Have - Experience establishing a new laboratory, opening a technical office, or growing a research and development team. - Experience with neutral-atom quantum computing, Rydberg physics, optical-tweezer arrays, quantum-gate characterization, or related processor architectures. - Experience with coherent control of quantum systems, including ultracold atoms, trapped ions, or diamond NV centers. - Familiarity with lasers, optical systems, RF instrumentation, ultra-high-vacuum systems, and the integration of complex experimental platforms. - Familiarity with Python, Linux, and tools for experiment control, data analysis, calibration, and automation. - Experience contributing to proposals, patents, technical roadmaps, customer discussions, or government-funded R&D. Why This Opportunity - Build something from the beginning: Help shape a new Chicago quantum hardware team, including its team culture and ways of working. - Make an impact through people: Develop talented scientists and engineers and give them direction and support to succeed. - Advance quantum computing: Lead a team translating ambitious research into increasingly capable and reliable systems. - Make Chicago your next chapter: Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate who wants to move to Chicago. Note This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations for quantum computing technology. Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Working Conditions and Physical Requirements Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers. We ask that candidates be able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person). Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements. Travel Up to 10% travel may be required. Benefits - Salary Range: per year $190,000 - $230,000 - 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, short/long-term disability - Employer-funded Health Savings Account - Unlimited PTO - 401(k) match - Company-paid Life and AD&D Insurance - Flexible Savings Account - Paid FMLA, Maternity/Paternity Leave - Employee Assistance Program - Student Loan Repayment - Equity Program Notice to Recruitment Agencies: Infleqtion does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Infleqtion is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.