Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physicist

Company: Vector Atomic
Location: Pleasanton
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Join Vector Atomic in Pleasanton, California, as we revolutionize industries with our near-term quantum devices for GPS-free navigation and timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of 75 plus applies an innovative yet practical approach to developing quantum solutions designed for real-world integration. We are hiring driven Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physicists to play a key role in building ultraprecise quantum devices for autonomous navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to contribute to all stages of development, from concept to deployment. We're looking for strong individuals who thrive on ownership and collaboration within our dynamic, team-oriented environment. If you're excited about working on groundbreaking technologies, we want to hear from you! Requirements What You'll Do: Prototype and design optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems Sensor integration, bring-up, and optimization; data analysis Analyze and simulate of atomic sensor performance and environmental sensitivities Deploy and demonstrate prototype sensors into real-world environments What We're Looking For: PhD in atomic, optical, quantum physics, or 3 years of related academic or industry experience To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees. Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal. Hands-on expertise with several of the following: Atomic clocks and inertial sensors Atomic ovens, beams, and/or vapor cells Laser cooling and trapping Precision spectroscopy Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems Narrow linewidth lasers and laser frequency stabilization Optics, fiber optics, electro/acousto-optics, detectors Analog, digital, and RF electronics Control systems and instrumentation Mechanical design Benefits Vector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We are an employee-owned company with competitive compensation and benefits including: Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision) Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Employer 401(k) contributions 20 days of paid time off / 10 paid holidays Paid parental leave Fully stocked kitchen Pay Range The approximate base salary range for this position is $115,000 to $165,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level. Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law. Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.

Keywords: Vector Atomic, Ceres , Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physicist, Engineering , Pleasanton, California