Hardware Platform Operations Manager (H/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!

About the role :

Lead the team that builds, operates and maintains the cryogenic and electronic platform on which our quantum processors are tested; no prior quantum experience is required. This high-calibre team of six engineers and specialist technicians, including a highly experienced technical expert, runs the cooling cycles, wiring and instrumentation of a growing fleet of state-of-the-art cryostats operating at 10 millikelvin, a few thousandths of a degree above absolute zero, and builds new systems in-house. Reporting directly to the VP Quantum Hardware & Infrastructure, you will shape the operating model of this critical platform.

Responsibilities

• Platform availability: own uptime, build the preventive maintenance plan, lead troubleshooting
• Operations: plan and prioritise the team’s activity against internal user requests, and contribute hands-on when needed
• System integration: oversee the in-house assembly, integration and commissioning of new systems, run their testing and validation, through to final acceptance
• Suppliers: manage suppliers and subcontractors, their interventions and the quality of their work
• People and budget: recruit, develop and manage the team, own the budget, and set up on-call coverage as the platform grows

 

Requirements

• Proven experience as the direct line manager of a technical team: recruitment, 1:1s, performance reviews, priorities. Project or matrix coordination alone is not sufficient
• An engineering degree or equivalent, and hands-on experience with complex technical systems: you have built, operated, maintained or troubleshot them yourself
• An operational excellence mindset: lean management, continuous improvement, planning under constraints
• Pragmatism and curiosity: sound decisions with incomplete information, and a fast learning curve on new technologies
• Professional English; working French for day-to-day operations on site
• Experience from adjacent environments transfers directly: data centers, semiconductor fabs, large research facilities (synchrotrons, particle accelerators), medical imaging, or any setting where critical equipment must stay available

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with cryogenics (ideally dilution refrigerators), RF or microwave measurement, vacuum systems, or a maintenance management system (CMMS)

Working conditions

The platform spans two sites in Île-de-France, Aubervilliers and Paris 15th, with regular travel between them (roughly 80% Aubervilliers, 20% Paris 15th). This is a hands-on, on-site role.

 

Recruitment process

• Screening Call with Alexandra Talent Acquisition Specialist (30 min)
• Hiring Manager Interview with Antoine, your future manager  (45 min)
• Technical case study on site (60 min) — prepared and presented on the day, nothing to do beforehand
• Leadership and Fit Interview (60 min)

Benefits:   - Our success is your success: own it with our BSPCE plan - Direct IP Compensation: Earn substantial bonuses for driving the core patents that define our quantum architecture. - A Parental plan including additional benefits such as crèche support or additional days-off to take care of under 12 years old children - Subsidized membership with Urban Sports Club - Mental health support with moka.care - 25-day vacation policy (as per French law) + RTT - Half of transportation cost coverage (as per French law), or yearly allowance for the die-hard bicycle users - Competitive health coverage, with Alan. - Meal vouchers with Swile, as well as access to a fully equipped and regularly stocked kitchen - French language courses covered by the company for those interested     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.