Cryo-Mechanical Lab Engineer (Quantum Physics)

Role Summary

We are seeking a hands-on cryo-mechanical lab engineer to support dilution refrigerator upgrades, retrofit integration, and sustaining improvements across quantum hardware systems. This role is focused on executing well-documented mechanical upgrades in active lab environments, improving repeatability of fridge configuration changes, and collaborating closely with cryogenic systems, packaging, facilities, and test engineers.

Key Responsibilities

Cryo-mechanical fridge upgrades

Install and rework cryo-mechanical hardware associated with fridge upgrades, including mechanical interfaces, shields, plates, brackets, harness routing supports, vacuum components, and integration fixtures.

Execute defined fridge upgrade procedures and capture build records, configuration changes, deviations, and lessons learned for future upgrade campaigns.

Support early bring-up and validation of upgraded fridge configurations under engineering guidance, including mechanical fit checks, thermal anchoring reviews, leak-check readiness, and cooldown preparation.

Lab Operations

Operate lab tools and equipment in accordance with ESD and safety requirements

Maintain clean, organized lab workspaces

Track work performed, materials used, and results

Debug & Collaboration

Identify mechanical fit, thermalization, vacuum, routing, contamination, or configuration issues during upgrade execution and escalate with supporting data.

Capture photos, measurements, torque records, configuration notes, and observations to support upgrade debug, engineering review, and future procedure improvements.

Work closely with internal engineers while owning day‑to‑day execution

Skills & Experience Required

Hands‑On Lab Experience

Direct experience working in a cryogenic, vacuum, hardware integration, or research lab environment.

Comfort with precision assembly, rework, or similar physical lab work

Ability to follow, redline, and improve written upgrade procedures while preserving configuration control and engineering intent.

Ability to travel up to 50% for fridge upgrade activities, including trips lasting up to two weeks at a time.

Technical Background

Familiarity with cryogenic systems, vacuum hardware, precision mechanical assemblies, thermal interfaces, instrumentation routing, or related hardware.

Experience supporting early‑stage or low‑volume development efforts

Strong attention to detail and quality

Nice to Have

Experience with dilution refrigerators, cryostats, vacuum systems, leak checking, thermal anchoring, low-temperature wiring, or cooldown preparation.

Exposure to quantum hardware systems where cryogenic reliability, mechanical integration, and thermal performance affect system readiness.