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Senior Mechanical Engineer Cryogenic

Rigetti Computing

Job Location:

Berkeley, CA - USA

Yearly Salary: $ 165000 - 190000

Posted: 8 August 2026 (30+ days ago)

Application Deadline: 10 November 2026

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Rigetti Computing builds full-stack quantum computers from superconducting qubit devices fabricated in our own foundry to cloud-accessible quantum processors. We are seeking a Senior Mechanical/Cryogenic Engineer to own the mechanical architecture of our quantum hardware systems from room-temperature infrastructure down to the millikelvin core of our dilution refrigerators.

You will lead the design of the cryogenic signal chain define mechanical interfaces across thermal stages and work directly alongside quantum physicists RF engineers and systems teams. This is a high-ownership role: you will drive design decisions end-to-end from concept through qualification on some of the most technically demanding hardware in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

Cryogenic Hardware Design

Own the mechanical design of cryogenic hardware from 300 K to millikelvin thermal anchoring RF wiring flex interconnects coaxial routing filter housings and connector packaging across all temperature stages.

Lead the full design lifecycle: concept CAD GD&T drawings BOMs tolerance analysis prototype builds qualification testing and manufacturing release.

Define cryogenic mechanical interfaces and thermal conduction budgets; drive design-for-manufacturability with external machine shops and precision vendors.

Simulation & Analysis

Perform mechanical thermal and vibration analyses independently using COMSOL ANSYS or equivalent; use simulation results to drive design decisions and iteration.

Conduct tolerance stack-up analyses for multi-component assemblies in constrained cryostat environments.

Integration Leadership & Collaboration

Lead prototype builds system integration and cryogenic bring-up; diagnose integration failures and drive root cause analysis.

Serve as the mechanical lead in cross-functional programs alongside quantum physicists RF engineers and systems teams mentor junior engineers and lead design reviews.

Maintain rigorous documentation CAD models drawings BOMs and revision-controlled design records within the company PLM system.

Required Qualifications

B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field (M.S. preferred).

7 years designing complex mechanical or electromechanical systems with end-to-end hardware ownership.

Expert-level SolidWorks large assemblies GD&T-compliant drawing packages and DFM workflows.

Independent proficiency in SolidWorks COMSOL or ANSYS for thermal and structural analysis.

Experience with hardware operating in cryogenic vacuum or extreme thermal environments.

Strong ME fundamentals: stress analysis tolerance stack-ups materials selection and failure mode analysis.

Proven ability to lead technical efforts and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

Direct experience with dilution refrigerators cryostats or sub-Kelvin systems in quantum computing or precision instrumentation.

Knowledge of superconducting quantum hardware architecture and millikelvin design constraints.

RF/microwave packaging experience: connector specification hermetic sealing and cable routing in cryostats.

Familiarity with cleanroom protocols vacuum-compatible assembly and contamination-sensitive environments.

$165000 - $190000 a year

Base Salary

Rigetti complies with all local and state regulations in regards to displaying salary ranges. Final compensation for this role will be determined by various factors such as a candidates relevant work experience skills and geographic location. Rigetti offers a full slate of benefits from competitive salaries equity medical dental and vision for employees as well as a 401(k) plan a paid parental leave program rejuvenation days and avacation policy that aligns with local regulations and industry standards.

As engineering leaders we value diversity and are committed to building a culture of inclusion to attract and engage innovative thinkers. Our technology meant to serve all of humanity cannot succeed if those who built it do not mirror the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from women minorities and other under-represented groups are encouraged.

About Rigetti

Rigetti Computing is a pioneer in full-stack quantum computing. The company has operated quantum computers over the cloud since 2017 and serves global enterprise government and research clients through its Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services platform. The companys proprietary quantum-classical infrastructure provides ultra-low latency integration with public and private clouds for high-performance practical quantum computing. Rigetti has developed the industrys first multi-chip quantum processor for scalable quantum computing systems. The company designs and manufactures its chips in-house at Fab-1 the industrys first dedicated and integrated quantum device manufacturing facility. Rigetti was founded in 2013 and today employs more than 150 people with offices in the United States U.K. and Australia. Learn more at .

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Export Licensing Compliance

Rigetti is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race religion color national origin gender sexual orientation age marital status veteran status or disability status.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process such as reviewing applications analyzing resumes or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed please contact us.

Required Experience:

Senior IC

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