Mechanical Engineer - Vacuum Systems

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Mechanical Engineer – Vacuum Systems. Location: Bothell, WA | Onsite (with partial remote flexibility)

Responsibilities:

• Design and prototype ultra-high and extreme-high vacuum (XHV)-compatible mechanical components, integrating them with optical and electrical subsystems.
• Develop and refine electro-mechanical assemblies and processes for testing and installation.
• Operate and maintain cryogenic systems and various vacuum technologies (rough, high, UHV);
• Assemble, troubleshoot, and optimize complex scientific instruments involving precision mechanics, lasers, optics, and electronics.
• Support the onsite installation and commissioning of next-generation quantum computers.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in vacuum or cryogenic systems engineering;
• Experience with XHV or UHV environments and mechanical design for scientific instruments.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) and familiarity with GD&T;
• Skill in soldering and assembling small-scale electrical/optical hardware.

Preferred:

• 10+ years of hands-on engineering experience in advanced manufacturing or atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics.
• Experience working with lasers, optical assemblies, and electronics integration.
• Advanced understanding of pumping mechanisms and cryogenic best practices.
• Experience with thermal and structural FEA simulations;
• Master’s or PhD in engineering, physics, or a related field.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $111,407 – $145,861 (based on experience and location)
• Additional Compensation: Performance-based bonus + Equity options
• Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with matching
  • Unlimited PTO and paid holidays
  • Parental/adoption leave
  • Home internet stipend
  • Pet insurance
  • Legal support
  • Hybrid work options