Photonic Test Development Engineer

About memQ: memQ is a Chicago-based venture-backed startup building the hardware foundation for quantum connectivity. We are developing an extensible quantum network architecture (xQNA) to enable distributed quantum computing. By combining solid-state quantum memories and other qubit modalities with the latest developments in integrated photonics, we are solving the critical challenge of connecting quantum processors on a network. As we move from prototype to production, we need robust testing infrastructure to validate our devices at scale.

The Role : We are looking for a Photonic Test Development Engineer to join our growing team at memQ. In this role, you will learn to develop and execute automated wafer and die-level measurements on our photonic chips. You will work with our external partners to build scalable test systems that characterize our quantum devices for mass production.

As a key member of our team, you will bridge the gap between R&D and manufacturing, 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.

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.

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.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Play a key role in enabling the first generation of distributed quantum computing.
• Growth: This is a role where you will "learn to develop"—we value aptitude and drive. You will grow your skills in automation, quantum hardware, and mass-scale manufacturing.
• Culture: Work with a collaborative, world-class team of scientists and engineers.
• Benefits: Competitive salary, equity package, and health benefits.