a16z portfolio company

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Location: Berkeley, CA
Work arrangement: Hybrid
Job type: Full-time
Compensation: USD 165,000–190,000

About the role

Posted Sep 23, 2026

Rigetti Computing is at the forefront of building scalable quantum computers. We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to architect, design, develop, and optimize advanced hardware systems that form the backbone of our next-generation quantum computing platforms. In this role, you will lead the mechanical design and integration of hardware that enables RF signal delivery and silicon device packaging within dilution refrigerators. These systems form the critical interface between room-temperature control electronics and ultra-low-temperature environments where superconducting qubits operate. You will collaborate closely with quantum device physicists, electrical/RF engineers, systems integration teams, and external fabrication partners to deliver innovative, high-performance mechanical systems for customer-deployed quantum computers.

Key Responsibilities: System Design & Development

Senior the mechanical design of complex hardware subsystems including cryostat internal architecture, custom components for signal chain and metal enclosures

Develop and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs)

Drive end-to-end design of mechanical interfaces from room temperature down to the millikelvin regime

Design thermal anchoring and shielding systems optimized for mechanical stability and quantum coherence

Perform thermal, vibrational, and structural simulations using FEA tools to ensure performance and robustness

Build and validate mechanical/cryogenic prototypes in lab

Collaborate with quantum physics teams to ensure system-level functionality in live quantum experiments

Work closely with hardware, cryo, RF, and systems teams to deliver integrated, scalable quantum hardware platforms

Develop specifications for outsourced components and manage supplier relationships for critical assemblies such as vacuum flanges, cryo fixtures, and RF housings

Author assembly documentation, and maintain design traceability in PLM system

Required Qualifications

M.S. degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
7+ years of industry experience in mechanical design and systems engineering
Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
Strong background in tolerance analysis and GD&T principles
Experience in thermal and structural modeling and simulation
Familiarity with documentation control, revision management, and PLM tools
Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and project collaboration skills
Demonstrated ability to develop and document assembly processes

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with thermal-mechanical effects in cryogenic materials and multi-physics system design

Experience with RF packaging and electronic device integration in cryogenic or vacuum environments

Quality assurance experience including inspection methodologies and non-conformance resolution

Hands-on machining or fabrication experience to support rapid prototyping and design iteration

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 candidate’s 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 a vacation 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.

Explore what’s next at Rigetti Quantum Computing.

Apply for this role

Explore what’s next at Rigetti Quantum Computing.

Apply for this role

Rigetti Quantum Computing

a16z portfolio company

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Location: Berkeley, CA
Work arrangement: Hybrid
Job type: Full-time
Compensation: USD 165,000–190,000

About the role

Posted Sep 23, 2026

Key Responsibilities: System Design & Development

Senior the mechanical design of complex hardware subsystems including cryostat internal architecture, custom components for signal chain and metal enclosures

Develop and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs)

Drive end-to-end design of mechanical interfaces from room temperature down to the millikelvin regime

Design thermal anchoring and shielding systems optimized for mechanical stability and quantum coherence

Perform thermal, vibrational, and structural simulations using FEA tools to ensure performance and robustness

Build and validate mechanical/cryogenic prototypes in lab

Collaborate with quantum physics teams to ensure system-level functionality in live quantum experiments

Work closely with hardware, cryo, RF, and systems teams to deliver integrated, scalable quantum hardware platforms

Develop specifications for outsourced components and manage supplier relationships for critical assemblies such as vacuum flanges, cryo fixtures, and RF housings

Author assembly documentation, and maintain design traceability in PLM system

Required Qualifications

M.S. degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
7+ years of industry experience in mechanical design and systems engineering
Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
Strong background in tolerance analysis and GD&T principles
Experience in thermal and structural modeling and simulation
Familiarity with documentation control, revision management, and PLM tools
Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and project collaboration skills
Demonstrated ability to develop and document assembly processes

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with thermal-mechanical effects in cryogenic materials and multi-physics system design

Experience with RF packaging and electronic device integration in cryogenic or vacuum environments

Quality assurance experience including inspection methodologies and non-conformance resolution

Hands-on machining or fabrication experience to support rapid prototyping and design iteration

Base Salary

Explore what’s next at Rigetti Quantum Computing.

Apply for this role

Explore what’s next at Rigetti Quantum Computing.

Apply for this role