Senior Quantum Materials UHV Hardware Engineer

Job Title

Senior Quantum Materials UHV Hardware Engineer

Role Summary

Design, build, commission, and evolve ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) deposition and processing systems to support quantum materials research and device fabrication. The role partners closely with materials growth, nanofabrication, characterization, and device teams to translate experimental needs into reliable hardware platforms.

This is a hands-on engineering position focused on UHV system architecture, thermal/cryogenic subsystems, and platform scalability for quantum-relevant materials.

Experience Level

Senior — candidate should meet the equivalent of the published senior qualifications (examples provided in Education Requirements). Typical expectation: several years of hands-on UHV and experimental hardware experience; role corresponds to an IC4 level.

Responsibilities

Deliver and maintain high-performance UHV hardware and enable experiments through robust system design and cross-functional collaboration.

• Design, build, commission, and upgrade custom UHV chambers and materials deposition platforms targeting base pressures ~10⁻¹¹ Torr.
• Specify and integrate pumps, gauges, manipulators, motion systems, heaters, cryogenic components, and in‑vacuum diagnostics.
• Design thermal and environmental control systems spanning ~1000 °C to cryogenic (liquid helium) temperatures and ensure stability and reproducibility.
• Adapt hardware to evolving materials and characterization requirements; support commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate across materials, fabrication, measurement, theory, and software teams to align hardware capabilities with program goals.
• Leverage modern AI tools for system monitoring, log analysis, documentation, failure diagnosis, and experiment support.
• Support on-site work with expected travel and hands-on engagement with machine shops and fabrication facilities.

Requirements

Must-haves focus on technical, security, and operational capabilities; education details are in Education Requirements below.

• Proven experience designing, building, or significantly upgrading UHV systems and materials deposition tools (MBE, evaporation, sputtering, or similar).
• Practical knowledge of cryogenic hardware, thermal design, and vibration‑sensitive systems.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD and visualization tools (e.g., SolidWorks or equivalent) and clear hardware documentation practices.
• Hands-on experience with machining, metal fabrication, or close collaboration with machine shops.
• Ability to use AI tools to improve operations, monitoring, and experiment workflows.
• Willingness and ability to work fully on-site in West Lafayette and travel as required (posting indicates ~25–50% travel).
• Must meet Microsoft and customer security screening requirements, including Microsoft Cloud Background Check and export-control eligibility checks.
• Must be able to verify citizenship or protected status as required to access export-controlled information (see Education Requirements for details on verification language in the posting).

Education Requirements

The posting lists degree-based paths or equivalent experience: PhD (Physics, Engineering, or related) +1 year industry/R&D experience; OR Master's (Physics, Engineering, or related) +4 years; OR Bachelor's (Physics, Engineering, or related) +6 years; OR equivalent practical experience. Preferred fields include Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or related technical fields. The role requires verification of citizenship or US Person status when necessary for export-control eligibility.

About the Company

Company: Microsoft

Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States

Microsoft is a global technology company that develops and sells software, services, devices, and solutions. Known for its Windows operating system, Office suite, and Azure cloud platform, Microsoft aims to empower individuals and organizations around the world to achieve more. The company fosters a culture of innovation and inclusion, focusing on delivering trusted experiences to customers and partners globally.