Photonics Intern

Join a deep-tech startup as a founding researcher, working hands-on with hardware to develop next-generation quantum communication infrastructure.

🎯 About the Role

This is a hands-on role focused on accelerating optical system builds for a space-based quantum communication startup. You will contribute to prototype development from day one, working in the clean room, at the bench, and in simulation.

🛠️ Key Responsibilities

• 💻 Run and iterate on photonic and electromagnetic simulations using Ansys Lumerical and Zemax.
• 🔧 Design and fabricate optical mounts, enclosures, and mechanical fixtures using CAD software.
• 📄 Convert technical requirements into Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• ✨ Execute hands-on optical assembly, alignment, and testing in a clean room environment.
• 🔌 Work with the embedded electronics team to integrate photonic subsystems.
• 📚 Stay current on relevant literature in optics and bring insights back to the team.

✅ Requirements & Skills

• 💡 Background in optics, photonics, RF communications, physics, electronics, or computer science.
• 💪 Comfortable with iterative, ambiguous, and physically demanding hardware development.
• 📄 Ability to read and extract information from dense technical documents.
• 📊 Working knowledge of data modulation and encoding, and solid grounding in electromagnetics.
• 📈 Familiarity with Ansys Lumerical and Zemax, or a strong willingness to learn them quickly.

🎁 Perks & Benefits

• ⭐ Founding Researcher status with direct attribution to hardware and systems.
• 🚀 Work on real prototype optical systems with operational consequences.
• 🔬 Deep-tech immersion in quantum communication hardware and product development cycle.
• 🧑‍🏫 Direct mentorship from the founding team.
• 🚀 Founder track with a clear path to a full-time role and ESOP eligibility.

📍 Location: Remote