Cryostat Equipment Engineer

About the Role

PsiQuantum is seeking a Cryostat Equipment Engineer to lead the installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance of advanced cryogenic systems supporting our quantum computing hardware. This role is critical to ensuring the reliable operation of large-scale cryostats and associated vacuum and instrumentation systems in a cutting-edge R&D and production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Install and commission quantum computing cryostats, including integration with mechanical, electrical, and control subsystems.
• Operate and maintain high-vacuum systems (UHV/HPV), including pumps, gauges, valves, and leak detection equipment.
• Develop and execute commissioning procedures, acceptance tests, and system validation protocols.
• Monitor cryostat performance, diagnose faults, and perform preventative and corrective maintenance.
• Interface with instrumentation systems (temperature sensors, pressure transducers, flow controllers, and data acquisition systems).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (quantum hardware, facilities, controls, and safety) to ensure system reliability and uptime.
• Maintain detailed documentation, including schematics, procedures, maintenance logs, and system modifications.
• Support continuous improvement efforts in system design, reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards related to cryogens, vacuum systems, and high-voltage equipment.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Hands-on experience with high-vacuum or ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) systems.
• Experience installing, commissioning, and maintaining complex equipment in a lab or industrial setting.
• Familiarity with cryogenic systems (e.g., dilution refrigerators, liquid helium systems, or closed-cycle cryocoolers).
• Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with cryostats in quantum computing, superconducting systems, or low-temperature physics environments.
• Knowledge of vacuum system design, leak detection (helium mass spectrometry), and materials compatibility.
• Familiarity with control systems (e.g., PLCs, LabVIEW, or similar platforms).
• Experience in a cleanroom or semiconductor environment.
• Advanced degree in a relevant field.

Compensation and Benefits

Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits.

Estimated Annual Base Salary Range

• Zone 1 (Bay Area and NYC): $104,300—$122,600 USD
• Zone 2 (e.g., Los Angeles and Washington DC): $93,900—$110,300 USD
• Zone 3 (e.g., Austin, Chicago, and Sacramento): $83,500—$98,100 USD
• Zone 4 (e.g., Nashville and Phoenix/Tempe and many remote locations): $73,000—$85,800 USD

Benefits Include

• Competitive health coverage for you and your dependents
• 401(k) with company match
• Equity grants
• Access to financial wellness tools and planning resources
• Wellness benefits
• Family support programs
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid leave programs
• Company-designated paid holidays
• Discretionary time off (DTO)
• End-of-year company shutdown

Some benefits have eligibility requirements and may vary based on location, role, or employment status. Many benefits are subsidized or fully paid for by the company.