Photonics Integration Technician

Location: Ottawa, ON (on-site)

Employment type: Full-time permanent

Salary range: $55,000 – $75,000 CAD per year

About Q-Block Computing: Q-Block Computing builds quantum systems that operate in the real world. The company develops quantum timing, quantum-secure communications, and quantum computing platforms engineered for the performance, reliability, and environmental resilience that mission-critical applications demand — systems designed to be deployed, maintained, and trusted by operators who cannot afford ambiguity about whether the technology works.

The long-term vision is deeper than any single platform. Q-Block is pursuing a mission to decode Nature's foundational model — to build instruments of sufficient precision and coherence that they become tools for understanding the physical universe at its most fundamental level. Commercialization and science reinforce each other by design.

About this role: The Photonics Integration Technician sits at the bench where engineering designs become working hardware. The role is responsible for the precision optical and photonic assembly, alignment, and testing of the subsystems that make up Q-Block's quantum platforms — free-space optics and fiber systems brought together to meet tight specifications, documented cleanly enough that the next build reproduces the first.

The successful candidate is a hands-on craftsperson with the patience and steadiness that precision optics require, and the discipline to follow procedures exactly while recognizing when a process can be improved. They work closely with the Optical Engineer and the broader hardware team, and take pride in assemblies that align the first time, test to spec, and leave the bench ready to be trusted.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, align, and secure free-space optical components — lenses, mirrors, beamsplitters, waveplates, filters, modulators — on optical breadboards and within integrated hardware enclosures, per engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Prepare, cleave, connectorize, splice, and terminate single-mode and polarization-maintaining optical fibers; perform fiber-to-free-space coupling and fiber-to-component pigtailing.
• Align optical assemblies to specified tolerances using precision stages, autocollimators, beam profilers, and power meters; document achieved alignment metrics.
• Perform functional and performance testing of optical assemblies including insertion loss, return loss, extinction ratio, beam quality, and power throughput measurements.
• Operate and maintain optical test equipment including power meters, optical spectrum analyzers, spectrometers, photodetectors, and interferometric measurement tools.
• Follow and contribute to the development of assembly work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and optical build travellers.
• Record detailed build logs, inspection records, and test data in compliance with quality management requirements.
• Perform incoming inspection of optical components; verify conformance to purchase specifications and flag non-conformances.
• Handle and clean precision optical components using approved techniques and solvents; maintain optics cleaning stations and supplies.
• Maintain a clean and organized optical assembly workspace; comply with cleanroom or clean-bench protocols as required.
• Support prototype development activities including first-article builds, rework, and design-for-manufacturing feedback to the Optical Engineer.
• Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and systems teams during subsystem integration and system-level testing.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous learning, craftsmanship, and honest technical discussion.

Required qualifications

• College diploma in Photonics Technology, Optical Engineering Technology, Electronics Engineering Technology, or a related applied science program; or an equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience.
• 2+ years of professional experience in optical or photonic assembly, alignment, and testing in a manufacturing, laboratory, or R&D environment.
• Demonstrated hands-on proficiency in precision optical alignment: free-space beam steering, fiber coupling, and optomechanical adjustment to tight tolerances.
• Practical experience with fiber optic preparation: cleaving, splicing (fusion and mechanical), connectorization, polishing, and fiber handling best practices.
• Ability to read and interpret optical assembly drawings, engineering specifications, and component datasheets.
• Familiarity with optical test instruments: power meters, OSAs, beam profilers, photodetectors, and basic interferometric tools.
• Experience working with laser systems (Class 3B/4) and adherence to laser safety protocols.
• Strong attention to cleanliness and contamination control in optical assembly environments.

Preferred qualifications

• Graduates of the Algonquin College Photonics program, Niagara College Photonics program, or equivalent Canadian applied photonics programs.
• Experience in photonics manufacturing, telecom component assembly, or scientific instrumentation environments.
• Exposure to quantum hardware, precision measurement systems, or defence-oriented optical hardware.
• Experience with UV-curable adhesives, epoxy bonding of optical elements, or active alignment and cure processes.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or comparable quality management practices in an optical assembly context.
• Experience contributing to SOP and work-instruction development in a production or pre-production environment.

Security and compliance requirements

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada security clearance, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be eligible to comply with requirements of the Controlled Goods Program, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be willing to participate in background screening, documentation, and compliance processes associated with security-sensitive work.

Skills and attributes

• Steady hands, patience, and comfort working with small, delicate components over long alignment and build sessions.
• Strong attention to detail, authenticity, and a sense of responsibility in all tasks.
• Ability to follow documented procedures precisely while identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Clear written communication; able to produce build logs and test records that hold up under review.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

• Extended health care (including dental and vision)
• Life insurance

Equal opportunity

Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants with respect and dignity. Accommodations are available on request during the application and recruiting process.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents are strongly encouraged to apply. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply.