Vp, Hardware

Photonic is building first-of-their-kind quantum computing capabilities at the intersection of photonics, silicon spin qubits, and large-scale technical integration. This is not an incremental hardware role-this is a build and scale mandate at the edge of physics and engineering.
As VP, Hardware, you will own the strategy, structure, and execution of a deeply multidisciplinary organization spanning mechanical, electrical, optical/photonics, FPGA, RF, cryogenics, and adjacent domains. You will align these capabilities into a coherent hardware architecture and drive them toward integrated, production-ready technical outcomes. This role demands urgency, technical depth, and the ability to operate effectively where architecture and requirements are still evolving.
Department: Hardware EngineeringEmployment Type: Full TimeLocation: British Columbia, Canada (Hybrid)Workplace type: OnsiteCompensation: The base annual salary range for this full-time role is between $280,000 to $395,000. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all Canadian locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DOBuild, structure, and scale a world-class hardware organization across multiple deep technical domains, establishing strong leadership bench and clear accountabilityDrive hardware architecture and roadmap in alignment with critical engineering and science milestonesIntegrate mechanical, electrical, optical/photonics, FPGA, RF, cryogenics, and related disciplines into cohesive, high-performance hardware capabilitiesEstablish execution discipline, program rigor, and delivery predictability without slowing innovation or technical explorationPartner tightly with engineering, chips, software, and science teams to ensure end-to-end alignment from component development through technical integrationMake fast, high-quality technical and organizational decisions in an environment with incomplete data and evolving constraintsIdentify and mitigate hardware-level risks early, ensuring readiness for technical integration and build cyclesDrive buy-build decisions for key components and partner with procurement team to ensure secure supply chain
WHAT YOU BRING TO OUR TEAMProven experience leading large, multidisciplinary hardware organizations delivering complex, first-of-a-kind hardware platformsTrack record of shipping integrated hardware platforms in environments where requirements and architecture evolved during developmentDeep technical credibility across multiple domains (mechanical, electrical, optical/photonics, FPGA, RF), with the ability to drive alignment across expertsExperience scaling teams in high-growth, build-stage environments while maintaining quality and technical excellenceStrong operational mindset—able to translate ambitious R&D into executable hardware programs with clear milestones and ownershipExperience using AI/LLM-assisted analytics features (e.G., Copilot, natural-language querying, AI-supported narrative summaries) with an understanding of limitations, validation steps, and data governance.Strong written and verbal communication skills;
comfortable presenting insights to both technical teams and executives.Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple requests with competing deadlines.
AN EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATE WILL BRINGExperience in quantum computing, photonics, semiconductors, or similarly complex, high-performance deep-tech environmentsHistory of building organizations from early stage through scale, including hiring, structuring, and leadership developmentDeep understanding of hardware/software co-design and its impact on performance, scalability, and manufacturability
WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH USWork closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs that redefine computingEnjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every dayInclusive company culture that values collaborationRegular social events and fun activities keep our global team connectedCompetitive compensation package including base salary, stock options, and relocation assistance for global talentComprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life, long term disability, an employee assistance program, parental leave top-ups, and a flexible spending account
The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey. If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, All roles listed are for current vacancies. While artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in reviewing applicant profiles, they do not determine candidate outcomes. Our hiring decisions are made by people, not algorithms. We are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams. If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.
About PhotonicPhotonic Inc. is a leading quantum technology company developing commercial-scale quantum computers and quantum networks to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges in materials science, drug discovery, climate change, and security. The company’s approach unlocks performance at scale through unmatched distributed quantum computing capabilities. Photonic’s high-connectivity Entanglement First architecture leverages a unique qubit modality—optically linked silicon spin qubits to enable powerful computation, efficient error correction, and seamless integration with existing data center and telecom environments. Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with operations in the United States and United Kingdom, Photonic’s team is advancing quantum technologies alongside leading investors, partners, and customers worldwide.
#J-18808-Ljbffr