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Algorithm Scientist Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Algorithm Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, or a related field (or a Bachelor's degree with demonstrated algorithm development experience) * Experience in signal processing ...

Senior Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

Skyline is looking for a Senior Data Scientist to lead research, algorithm development, and advanced analytics for cutting-edge electro-optical and infrared sensing systems. This role applies physics ...

Senior Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

Skyline is looking for a Senior Data Scientist to lead research, algorithm development, and advanced analytics for cutting-edge electro-optical and infrared sensing systems. This role applies physics ...

Senior Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Skyline is looking for a Senior Data Scientist to lead research, algorithm development, and advanced analytics for cutting-edge electro-optical and infrared sensing systems. This role applies physics ...

MORSE is searching for a Data Scientist with expertise in data analysis, data science, and algorithm development in one or more of a variety of fields including visual classification, big data ...

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Showing results 1-20

Algorithm Scientist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$57.2K

$126.1K

$155.7K

How much do algorithm scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for algorithm scientist in Washington, DC is $126,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $155,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Algorithm Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Algorithm Scientist, you need a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, often supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. in a related field. Proficiency with programming languages like Python or C++, machine learning libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and experience with data analysis tools are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for developing innovative algorithms that solve complex problems, ensuring practical, scalable solutions in technological environments.

How does an Algorithm Scientist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the development process?

Algorithm Scientists frequently work alongside data engineers, software developers, and product managers to design and implement solutions. They are often responsible for communicating complex mathematical concepts in accessible terms to ensure alignment across the team. Regular meetings and code reviews are common, allowing for feedback and rapid iteration. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the algorithms developed are both technically sound and practically viable for real-world applications.

What are Algorithm Scientists?

Algorithm Scientists are professionals who design, analyze, and optimize algorithms to solve complex computational problems. They often work in fields like data science, artificial intelligence, finance, and engineering, developing new methods or improving existing ones for processing data efficiently. Their work involves rigorous mathematics, computer science, and research to ensure algorithms are accurate, scalable, and effective for specific applications. Algorithm Scientists may also collaborate with software engineers to implement their solutions in real-world systems.
Infographic showing various Algorithm Scientist job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,107 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Quantum Algorithms Scientist - Optimization

Phasecraft

Washington, DC • On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Phasecraft is the quantum algorithms company. We are building the mathematical foundations for quantum computing applications that solve real-world problems. Founded in 2019 by Toby Cubitt, Ashley Montanaro and John Morton, we are based in London and Bristol in the UK and opened an office in Washington DC in 2024, led by Steve Flammia. In 2023 we completed a $17m Series A funding round led by leading Silicon Valley deep tech VC, Playground Global.

Phasecraft's unprecedented access to today's best quantum computers - through partnerships with Google, IBM, Quantinuum and QuEra - provides us with unique opportunities to develop foundational IP, inform the development of next-generation quantum hardware, and accelerate commercialization of high-value breakthroughs.

 We are looking to hire a Quantum Algorithms Scientist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in the theory and/or implementation of optimization algorithms for gate-model quantum computers, or in classical optimization or constraint satisfaction algorithms; or otherwise strong evidence of potential to contribute to these areas. Their work will initially focus on these topics, though they will have the opportunity to grow a portfolio of research activity across the breadth of Phasecraft's interests. A background in quantum computing is not necessarily required, though in this case a successful candidate will have evidence of the ability to design and implement advanced algorithms for optimization and/or constraint satisfaction.

Job Description

  • Undertake theoretical and/or applied research and/or software development for near-term quantum computing applications, with an initial focus on quantum algorithms and software for combinatorial optimization and/or constraint satisfaction problems.
  • Help to author publications, presentations, patent applications and similar resulting from the research.
  • Work collaboratively in a small team made up of full-time staff and affiliated PhD students.
  • Work with stakeholders on collaborations applying quantum computing to optimization problems.
  • Other activities as required to support the growth and success of Phasecraft.

Requirements

Essential criteria:

  • Expertise in one or more of:
    o quantum information and/or computation theory
    o theory and implementation of classical algorithms for optimization or constraint satisfaction
    o quantum algorithm design and implementation
    o mathematical analysis of algorithms
  • Proven track record of working independently on research projects.
  • Deep expertise and an excellent publication track-record in relevant discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to disseminate research results to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Flexibility to work across different aspects of quantum algorithms, and to work on other tasks required to support the growth and success of the company.
  • An interest in near-term quantum computing

Desirable criteria:

  • PhD (or soon to receive one) in quantum information, quantum computation theory, theoretical computer science, or closely related field.
  • Coding in quantum software development environments (e.g. Cirq, QuEST, Qiskit).
  • Experience of implementing algorithms on quantum hardware.
  • Strong publication track-record in relevant discipline.
  • Software development skills.
  • Enthusiasm for learning and novel research.

Benefits

  • The annual compensation range for this role is $120,000 - $175,000, depending on experience.
  • Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance.
  • 401(k) Plan with company matching.
  • Unlimited annual leave.