Senior Director of Robotics Optics Alignment presso Monarch Quantum

Description

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Director of Robotics Optics Alignment. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self-starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows:

• Technical Leadership
• Lead development of robotic systems for:
• Single-mode laser to single-mode fiber coupling
• Free-space collimation and beam shaping
• Mirror and micro-optic alignment (sub-micron / sub-µrad tolerances)
• Define alignment strategies (active vs. passive, closed-loop optimization, vision-based vs. power-based).
• Set standards for optical performance, stability, and manufacturability.
• Optic Attach & Permanent Fixation
• Own advanced optic attach processes, including:
• UV-curable and thermally cured adhesives
• Solder and eutectic attach
• Laser welding / resistance welding
• Balance optical performance, thermal stability, reliability, and cycle time.
• Partner with reliability teams to ensure long-term alignment stability.
• Robotics & Automation Strategy
• Define automation roadmap from pilot tools to full high-volume manufacturing.
• Oversee system architecture including:
• Precision motion stages and robotics
• Vision systems and metrology
• Control software and optimization algorithms
• Drive equipment scalability, uptime, and cost reduction.
• High-Volume Manufacturing Enablement
• Translate R&D alignment techniques into robust, repeatable production processes.
• Lead yield improvement, cycle-time reduction, and process capability (Cp/Cpk).
• Support factory ramp, supplier engagement, and global manufacturing transfer.
• People & Organization
• Build and lead multidisciplinary teams across robotics, optics, controls, and manufacturing engineering.
• Mentor senior technical leaders and develop next-generation engineering talent.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product, reliability, quality, and supply chain teams.

Requirements

• This position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

Experience:

• 12+ years in photonics, optics manufacturing, robotics, or precision automation.
• Proven experience aligning:
• Single-mode lasers
• Single-mode fiber coupling
• Collimation optics and mirrors
• Deep hands-on and leadership experience with advanced optic attach methods:
• UV adhesives
• Solder / eutectic bonding
• Welding techniques
• Demonstrated success deploying high-volume manufacturing automation.
• Technical Expertise
• Optical alignment theory and practice (active alignment, tolerance analysis).
• Precision robotics, motion control, and metrology.
• Understanding of thermal, mechanical, and material interactions affecting optical stability.
• Familiarity with telecom, datacom, laser systems, or integrated photonics manufacturing.
• Leadership
• Experience leading large technical teams and cross-functional initiatives.
• Ability to set technical vision while executing against aggressive production timelines.
• Strong communication skills across executive, engineering, and factory audiences.

Preferred Qualifications;

• Experience scaling optical alignment automation from prototype to >100k units/month.
• Background in laser welding or hermetic packaging.
• Exposure to PIC-based or hybrid photonic assemblies.
• MS or PhD in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

Skills:

• Proven record of building and leading engineering teams successfully executing multiple, parallel, complex process development engineering projects through development, qualification, fielding and maintenance cycle.
• Practical experience and industry recognition in the areas of photonics process development.
• Proficient with common industry equipment: Wire-bonding, optical fiber processing equipment, die bonding, vacuum reflow oven soldering, adhesive dispense, pick and place, optics attach, laser welding, parallel seam sealing, etc.

Startup Mindset:

• You're creative, flexible, and eager to wear multiple hats.
• You're passionate about building systems from the ground up and comfortable with ambiguity and change.

Benefits

The expected annual salary range for this position is $240,00-$300,000.

As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch’s comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching
• 20 paid time off (PTO) days per year
• 13 paid company holidays
• 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)

Monarch Quantum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran status or any other characteristics protected under applicable federal, state and local laws.