Mechanical Engineering Intern M/F

Alice & Bob is developing the first universal, fault-tolerant quantum computer to solve the world’s hardest problems. The quantum computer we envision building is based on a new kind of superconducting qubit: the Schrödinger cat qubit 🐈‍⬛. In comparison to other superconducting platforms, cat qubits have the astonishing ability to implement quantum error correction autonomously!   We're a diverse team of 250+ brilliant minds from over 35 countries united by a single goal: to revolutionise computing with a practical fault-tolerant quantum machine. Are you ready to take on unprecedented challenges and contribute to revolutionising technology? Join us, and let's shape the future of quantum computing together!

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

In a context where the number of qubits per dilution refrigerator keeps growing and no supplier offers an off-the-shelf readout bundle, the Mechanical Engineering Intern makes readout chain integration scalable. Today, each readout chain at the MXC stage (isolators/circulators, filters, TWPA, low-noise amplifier) is assembled line by line with SMA connections inside the fridge. This process is slow, depends on the operator, causes defects and cannot be outsourced.

Reporting to the Cryohardware Development Team, the intern will work closely with the operation and RF teams to design, prototype and validate a compact readout module that cuts assembly time and defects and that a subcontractor can build.

This internship will start at the end of January 2027 and will last 6 months!

Responsibilities:

1. 1. Characterize the current readout chain and define the specification
   2. Map the existing chain: assembly time, defect rate, insertion losses, footprint
   3. Define the specification with the operation and RF teams: number of lines (target 32), MXC envelope, insertion loss budget, thermalization requirements
   4. Study and select the mechanical architecture
   5. Compare two architectures: a pre-cabled block with non-threaded connections, and a block with a single plug interface to the MXC
   6. Benchmark compact components available on the market
   7. Build a decision matrix and defend the chosen architecture in design review
   8. Design the readout module
   9. Produce the CAD model, drawings and a costed bill of materials (BOM)
   10. Select materials and design thermalization to the MXC plate
   11. Define torque specifications and perform the SMP tolerance stack-up
   12. Choose connectors compatible with a future board-edge/PCB integration
   13. Write an assembly and inspection procedure that a subcontractor can follow
   14. Build and validate a prototype in the cryostat
   15. Assemble the prototype and measure the real assembly time
   16. Perform SOLT/SOLR calibration and S-parameter characterization at room temperature and cold
   17. Compare performance against the SMA reference chain and write a measurement report
   18. Recommend the path to industrialization
   19. Deliver a go/no-go recommendation based on measurement results
   20. Build an industrialization roadmap, including inputs for the phase-2 PCB study

Requirements:

Final-year Master's or engineering student in mechanical engineering or mechatronics, with an interest in RF and cryogenic hardware. Hands-on and rigorous, you enjoys building, testing and documenting hardware and is comfortable presenting technical choices to multidisciplinary teams.

• Mechanical design for assembly (DFA) and tolerance analysis (stack-ups)
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks) and technical drawing
• Material selection and thermal design, ideally with an interest in cryogenic constraints
• Basic knowledge of RF connectors and coaxial lines (a plus)
• Interest in RF measurements (VNA, S-parameters) and cryogenics
• Hands-on approach: comfortable assembling and testing hardware
• Rigor and clear technical documentation
• Ability to structure and present technical choices in a design review
• LANGUAGES: Proficient in English
• EXPERIENCE: No minimum required. A previous internship or project in mechanical design, prototyping or testing is a plus. Availability: 6 months.

Benefits: - 1 day off per month - Half of transportation cost coverage (as per French law) - Meal vouchers with Swile, as well as access to a fully equipped and regularly stocked kitchen       Research shows that women might feel hesitant to apply for this job if they don't match 100% of the job requirements listed. This list is a guide, and we'd love to receive your application even if you think you're only a partial match. We are looking to build teams that innovate, not just tick boxes on a job spec.   You will join of one of the most innovative startups in France at an early stage, to be part of a passionate and friendly team on its mission to build the first universal quantum computer!   We love to share and learn from one another, so you will be certain to innovate, develop new ideas, and have the space to grow.