Lab Support Specialist

Lab Support Specialist

Department : Hardware Engineering

Employment Type : Full Time

Location : British Columbia, Canada

Compensation : The base annual salary range for this full-time role is between $86,000 to $130,000. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all Canadian locations.

Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs.

Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Description

As our Lab Support Specialist at Photonic, you will become an integral part of our Research and Development (R&D) Operations team, working at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.

Your primary focus will be to support our scientific and R&D teams in their experiments, particularly performing routine quality control processes on electro-optical samples, operating cryogenic systems, and building and aligning high precision optomechanical and electromechanical assemblies.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in both mechanical and electrical troubleshooting and possess experience with various lab and measurement tools.

Please include a cover letter with your resume (in one file) describing how you would be a great fit at Photonic and what attributes you could bring to our growing team.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO

• Run routine quality control processes on electro-optical samples, including microscopic inspection, sample mounting, optical property screening, and wire-bonding procedures.
• Load and align samples into cryogenic systems, and prepare the systems for sample swaps through warm-up and cool-down procedures.
• Build, align, and calibrate high precision optomechanical and electromechanical assemblies for laser steering and optical inspection applications.
• Inspect incoming sample mounting componentry for quality using standard metrology tools such as dial / test indicators, surface plates, and micrometers.
• Perform minor electrical assembly tasks, including wiring modules and modifying cable assemblies.
• Handle minor fabrication and assembly work, including working with 80 / 20 Aluminum extrusion.
• Ensure equipment calibrations, perform firmware upgrades, and update software on measurement systems. Refill liquid LN2 dewars and high-pressure gas cylinders on a weekly basis.
• Record system performance logs and write measurement reports.

WHAT YOU BRING TO OUR TEAM

You thrive on the challenge of learning new technologies and scientific advancements, leveraging your extensive expertise in lab operations and cryogenic systems.

With an open mind and a creative approach, you excel at solving complex, multi-variable problems. To succeed in this role, we're looking for someone with :

• A college diploma or university degree, accompanied by 5+ years of hands-on experience
• Proficiency in mechanical and electrical troubleshooting, using digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, soldering irons, and crimpers.
• Experience with Python and command-line interfaces is a plus. Familiarity with SolidWorks, CAD, Fusion 360, and CAM is also beneficial.
• Previous experience with precision alignment jigs, optomechanical design, data acquisition systems, and machine shop work is highly valued.
• Knowledge of high vacuum systems, leak detectors, and experience with CNC milling machines and manual lathes are advantageous.
• Ability to write clear technical documentation and measurement reports.

An exceptional candidate will bring :

• Experience with cryogenic systems, high vacuum systems, and precision alignment techniques.
• Background in optomechanical design and use of precision alignment jigs.
• Proficiency in machine shop operations and experience with Fusion 360 / CAM.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and familiarity with technical writing and documentation.
• Additional skills : Forklift operation, gantry cranes, and experience with water cooling chiller loops and HVAC systems.

Bonus

Photonic is designing the world's first quantum processor in silicon. It would be advantageous if you had some familiarity with quantum physics, mathematics, and programming, but we will ensure that team members will have the opportunity to learn about quantum computing as we grow.

WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

• Get involved with a quantum startup company set to redefine computing
• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day
• Inclusive company culture
• Competitive salary, benefits (including life insurance, extended health, dental, long term disability, and a flexible spending account), and potential upside

The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey.

If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, please still apply! We are also committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

We embrace and encourage our employees' differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams.

If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.