Senior Cryogenic Technician

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Cryogenic Technician. Location: British Columbia, Canada

Responsibilities:

• Operate, monitor, and maintain closed-cycle cryogenic systems and cryostats used for quantum hardware experiments.
• Execute cool-down, steady-state operation, and warm-up procedures for cryogenic systems;
• Monitor system performance including temperatures, pressures, vacuum levels, and flow conditions, identifying abnormal conditions and taking corrective action.
• Develop, refine, and maintain operational procedures and checklists to ensure safe and repeatable operation.
• Maintain high-vacuum systems, including pumps, valves, gauges, and seals, and perform leak detection on vacuum and gas systems.
• Operate and maintain gas handling systems for helium and nitrogen, supporting cryogenic processes;
• Collaborate with Lab and Assembly Technicians to support experiments, laboratory operations, and integration of hardware near cryostats.
• Support engineering teams in system bring-up, testing, troubleshooting, and providing feedback for design-for-serviceability.
• Maintain accurate documentation of system configurations, maintenance activities, and operational history, contributing to continuous improvement and safety compliance.
• Follow and enforce cryogenic safety practices and participate in hazard assessments, safety reviews, and staff training.

Qualifications:

• Seven or more years of hands-on experience operating cryogenic or low-temperature systems.
• Practical knowledge of closed-cycle cryogenic systems, cryostats, high-vacuum systems, and gas handling.
• Experience improving cryogenic procedures and operating in safety-critical environments involving cryogens, high-pressure gases, and vacuum equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical, vacuum, and cryogenic system issues methodically;
• Strong sense of ownership, situational awareness, and attention to detail.
• Technical diploma, apprenticeship, or equivalent hands-on experience in cryogenics, mechanical systems, or related fields; Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering, or related field is a plus.

Preferred:

• Experience supporting cryogenic systems used in quantum or low-temperature physics experiments.
• Familiarity with dilution refrigerators or pulse-tube cryogenic systems;
• Experience with oxygen deficiency monitoring systems, safety controls, and operational readiness reviews.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base annual salary range CAD 105,000–144,400, depending on experience and location.
• Eligible for equity and benefits.
• Opportunity to work closely with innovators in quantum technologies, taking ownership of cryogenic system operations and procedures.
• Contribute to scaling and refining low-temperature quantum hardware systems in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.

Other Information:

• Include a cover letter with your resume describing your fit and attributes.
• Onsite role in British Columbia, Canada;
• Company promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion; all candidates encouraged to apply, including those with non-traditional backgrounds.
• Photonic is a leading quantum technology company developing commercial-scale quantum computers and quantum networks.