Senior Cryogenic Engineer

Quantum computing holds the promise of humanity's mastery over the natural world, but only if we can build a real quantum computer. PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the first real, useful quantum computers, capable of delivering the world-changing applications that the technology has long promised. We know that means we will need to build a system with roughly 1 million qubits that supports fault tolerant error correction within a scalable architecture, and a data center footprint.

By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers can provide exponential performance increases over today's most powerful supercomputers, offering the potential for extraordinary advances across a broad range of industries including climate, energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and many more.

PsiQuantum has determined the fastest path to delivering a useful quantum computer, years earlier than the rest of the industry. Our architecture is based on silicon photonics which gives us the ability to produce our components at Tier-1 semiconductor fabs such as GlobalFoundries where we leverage high-volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, the same processes that are already producing billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics applications. We also benefit from the quantum mechanics reality that photons don't feel heat or electromagnetic interference, allowing us to take advantage of existing cryogenic cooling systems and industry standard fiber connectivity.

In 2024, PsiQuantum announced two government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first Quantum Data Centers and utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia and Chicago, Illinois. Both projects are backed by nations that understand quantum computing's potential impact and the need to scale this technology to unlock that potential. And we won't just be building the hardware, but also the fault tolerant quantum applications that will provide industry-transforming results.

Quantum computing is not just an evolution of the decades-old advancement in compute power. It provides the key to mastering our future, not merely discovering it. The potential is enormous, and we have the plan to make it real. Come join us.

There's much more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Job Summary :

We are seeking a technically adept and hands-on Senior Cryogenic Engineer to lead and support the installation, integration, commissioning, and operation of multiple helium cryoplants and associated cryogenic systems-particularly in support of quantum computing applications. The ideal candidate will possess a unique combination of strategic program and project management expertise, exceptional troubleshooting abilities, and deep technical knowledge in vacuum systems and helium cryogenics. Proven experience with process instrumentation and control systems is essential. This role requires excellence in both field execution and system-level design leadership.

Responsibilities :

• Coordinate and supervise the installation, commissioning, and operation of two helium cryoplants and related infrastructure.
• Optimize helium process and system control strategies.
• Integrate cryoplants with cryogenic distribution systems and cryostats used in quantum computing environments.
• Provide expert-level troubleshooting of cryogenic systems, including instrumentation faults, vacuum failures, and control logic anomalies.
• Lead the commissioning of cryoplants and cryostats, including system calibration, leak checking, and vacuum pumping procedures.
• Lead and manage operational teams, including training and guiding operators during startup, maintenance, and fault recovery.
• Develop maintenance strategies for cryoplants and support equipment.
• Participate in FATs and SATs, and lead the commissioning of process automation and control systems, including sensor validation and PLC tuning.
• Spearhead the development and review of P&IDs, and participate in operability and HAZOP reviews for safety and performance assurance.
• Maintain high-performance vacuum systems, identify and repair leaks.

Experience / Qualifications :

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

Note : PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to recruiting@psiquantum.com .

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

The ranges below reflect the target ranges for a new hire base salary. One is for the Bay Area (within 50 miles of HQ, Palo Alto), the second one (if applicable) is for elsewhere in the US (beyond 50 miles of HQ, Palo Alto). If there is only one range, it is for the specific location of where the position will be located. Actual compensation may vary outside of these ranges and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

U.S. Base Pay Range

$150,000 — $180,000 USD

Bay Area Pay Range

$170,000 — $200,000 USD