Chief Engineer - Hardware

Job Description

Job Title: Chief Systems Engineer – Hardware. Location: Broomfield, CO (preferred) or US Remote

Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic development and deployment of systems engineering tools, methodologies, and modeling techniques.
• Champion the use of systems engineering processes across all technical and operational functions, promoting training, mentorship, and best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including procurement, IT, and engineering—to ensure clear and complete communication of requirements.
• Standardize systems engineering practices to improve efficiency, prevent errors, and optimize the product lifecycle.
• Ensure early-stage product design aligns with DFMAT (Design for Manufacturability, Availability, and Testability).
• Conduct trade studies and recommend solutions using tools like Pugh Analysis and FMEA;
• Support system architecture design to ensure scalable and maintainable hardware systems;
• Oversee subsystem integration for smooth operation and inter-component compatibility;
• Embed continuous improvement through audits, metrics, and structured feedback loops.
• Facilitate the transition of quantum prototypes into reliable, production-ready systems.
• Support lifecycle-focused systems thinking from design to decommissioning.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• 10+ years of systems engineering experience involving complex, multiphysics systems;
• Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or refugee/asylee);
• Due to U.S. national security laws, candidates cannot be nationals of China or Russia unless also U.S. citizens.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree (M.S./Ph.D.) in physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or optical engineering.
• Experience in quantum technologies or AMO physics.
• Strong background in model-based systems engineering and lifecycle product design.
• Familiarity with quantum system development in industrial settings;
• Exposure to lean, startup-like environments and complex system deployments;
• Certifications in Six Sigma and lean manufacturing are a plus.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary: $200,000 – $250,000 (including incentive eligibility)
• Flexible work schedule with hybrid/remote flexibility
• 401(k) with student loan repayment match;
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (employer subsidized)
• Equity options;
• Generous vacation and paid sick leave;
• Paid parental leave;
• 12 paid holidays
• Employee discounts