#241 Optical/Laser Engineer

Company Overview

The company aims to implement a “quantum internet”—a next-generation infrastructure where eavesdropping and decryption are physically impossible—to protect passwords, corporate secrets, and financial and medical data from threats such as quantum computers.

They are developing the hardware and systems essential for long-distance quantum communication.

・Development of quantum communication systems and quantum repeaters: Developing long-distance quantum repeaters and related systems to extend the range of quantum communication beyond current distance limitations.

・Research and commercialization of core technologies: Developing and commercializing key technologies such as quantum entanglement generators (light sources), quantum memories, wavelength conversion, and frequency stabilization.

【Strengths and Characteristics】

1. Possession of world-class core technologies

The company is a rare global technology group that possesses—in-house and comprehensively—the foundational technologies required to realize long-distance quantum communication (including quantum entanglement light sources, quantum memories, and wavelength conversion).

2. Strong industry-academia-government collaboration and financial backing

The company has been selected for numerous projects, including major startup support programs run by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization).

3. An environment for cutting-edge engineers and researchers

The team brings together top-tier physicists (PhDs) and engineers with advanced expertise in fields such as quantum mechanics and optics, creating an environment where they can engage in state-of-the-art hardware and software development.

Job Description

Upon joining the company, you will first focus on understanding the structure and operating principles of the quantum light sources and optical systems currently under development, with the goal of becoming capable of assembling existing optical systems yourself.

Following this, depending on your experience and expertise, you will be entrusted with the following responsibilities:

1. Development of Quantum Light Sources and Optical Systems
■ Development of optical systems, such as entangled photon sources and lasers
■ Design, assembly, alignment, and evaluation of optical experimental setups
■ Stabilization and performance enhancement of optical systems
■ Development related to laser control, phase synchronization, etc.
■ Identification and resolution of technical challenges within optical systems

2. Productization of Research Outcomes
■ Modularization and miniaturization of optical systems currently in the research phase
■ Design, evaluation, and improvement of optical modules
■ System design with a focus on stability, reproducibility, and maintainability
■ Creation of specifications, design documents, and other materials for productization
■ Standardization of designs with a view toward future manufacturing and mass production

3. Field Demonstrations and Collaborative Development (Domestic and International)
■ Deployment of developed optical systems into demonstration environments
■ On-site setup, alignment, and operational verification
■ Measurement, data acquisition, and performance evaluation of optical systems
■ Implementing improvements based on demonstration results and incorporating findings into future development
■ Technical collaboration with research institutions and companies, both domestically and internationally
Rather than having tasks siloed—such as focusing exclusively on research, design, or evaluation—this role offers the unique opportunity to be involved throughout the entire process, all the way to the point where the equipment you have developed is put into actual use.

Requirements

Candidates should possess practical experience in one or more of the following areas:
■ Research and development, design, or evaluation of lasers and light sources
■ Construction, alignment, and evaluation of optical experimental setups using lasers
■ Stabilization and performance enhancement of optical systems
■ Research and development in fields such as spectroscopy, optical measurement, or laser-based equipment
■ Development of scientific instruments, measurement devices, or similar equipment utilizing laser and optical technologies
*Prior practical experience in quantum technology or quantum communication is not required.
*They welcome a wide range of applicants, from those with 2–3 years of corporate R&D experience to those with extensive professional experience.

Additionally, they welcome individuals with the following interests or approaches:
■ A desire to engage in hands-on development, such as the assembly and alignment of optical systems
■ An interest in bringing research outcomes to market or implementing them in society
■ A proactive approach to identifying technical challenges and proposing improvements

【Required Language Skills】
・Ability to communicate in Japanese or English

Preferred Requirements

■ Knowledge and experience in quantum optics, quantum communication, and sources of entangled photons
■ Experience with laser stabilization, phase synchronization, and optical control
■ Experience in the modularization and miniaturization of optical systems
■ Experience spanning the entire lifecycle from R&D to product development and commercialization
■ Experience in defining specifications for optical equipment and preparing design documents, technical specifications, etc.
■ Knowledge and experience in FPGAs, embedded control, and electrical circuits
■ Experience in measurement, control, and data analysis using tools such as Python
■ Experience in developing systems that integrate optics, electronics, control, and software
■ Experience with international collaborative research, technical development, or field demonstrations
■ Experience in technical communication in English
* They particularly welcome candidates with a background in R&D for lasers and optical systems who have successfully translated research outcomes into tangible products or equipment.

Terms and Conditions

• Annual Salary: 6 – 15 million JPY(includes fixed overtime pay for 45 hours)

• Employment type:Full-time employee

• Bonus: equivalent to 2 months’ salary, paid twice a year

• Salary Increase: Once a year

• Probation Period: 3 months

• Location: Kanagawa

• Social Insurance: Fully covered

• Working Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Flextime system (core hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Holidays: Saturdays, Sundays, and National Holidays

• Benefits: Company-leased housing program, laptop selection system, etc.

• Average Overtime: 10 hours/month

• Smoking Cessation Measures: Non-smoking indoors

Selection Process

• Selection Flow: Two interviews

• Required Documents: They require a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV) for the initial screening.

• Interview Language: Their interviews can be conducted in either Japanese or English.