Assistant Quantum Computing Research Jobs in Washington, DC

Location: Remote (Supporting Eastern Time Zone)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Security Requirement: Tier 4 / High Risk Background Investigation
Travel: Approximately two trips per year (seven trips over the life of the contract)

Salary Range: $200,000- $230,000

MKS2 is seeking a highly experienced Quantum Computing / Cryptography Engineer (Key Personnel) to support a federal government program focused on advancing cryptographic modernization, quantum computing readiness, and post-quantum cryptography (PQC) initiatives. This role will serve as a subject matter expert responsible for evaluating emerging quantum technologies, assessing cryptographic risks, developing quantum-resistant strategies, and supporting enterprise-wide migration planning for future cryptographic standards.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in quantum computing, cryptography, cybersecurity, and secure systems architecture, with experience supporting large-scale enterprise or government environments. This individual will work closely with technical teams, security leadership, and executive stakeholders to ensure organizational readiness for the evolving quantum computing landscape.

• Lead assessments of organizational cryptographic systems and identify risks associated with advancements in quantum computing.
• Develop quantum-resilient security strategies and migration roadmaps aligned with federal cybersecurity requirements.
• Research, evaluate, and implement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) solutions and quantum-resistant algorithms.
• Advise stakeholders on the impact of quantum computing technologies on enterprise security architectures.
• Conduct cryptographic inventory assessments and prioritize systems for modernization and migration.
• Evaluate emerging cryptographic standards and frameworks, including NIST post-quantum cryptography standards.
• Design and test cryptographic solutions using classical and quantum simulation tools.
• Provide technical guidance for implementing quantum-safe encryption, key management, and PKI solutions.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity, software engineering, data science, and infrastructure teams to integrate quantum-resistant technologies.
• Support policy development, governance activities, and strategic planning related to cryptographic modernization.
• Prepare technical reports, executive briefings, and risk assessments for government stakeholders and leadership.
• Participate in technical working groups, architecture reviews, and program management activities.

• Minimum of 10 years of Information Technology experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of Quantum Computing and Cryptography experience supporting large corporations or Federal Government agencies comparable in size and complexity to the GSA, IRS, DoD, or VA.
• Experience supporting cryptographic modernization efforts and enterprise security initiatives.
• Experience evaluating emerging quantum technologies and developing implementation strategies.
• Experience working in project-based environments supporting large-scale technology initiatives.

Substitution:

• A Master's degree in a related Information Technology field may substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:

• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Cybersecurity
• Computer Science
• Information Systems
• Information Assurance
• Information Security
• Information Resource Management
• Related discipline

Must possess one or more of the following certifications:

• Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level III
• Information Assurance Management (IAM) Level III
• Information Assurance System Architect and Engineer (IASAE) Level III

• Strong understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and quantum computing principles.
• Expertise with quantum algorithms including Shor's Algorithm, Grover's Algorithm, and related quantum computational models.
• Hands-on experience with quantum development platforms and frameworks such as:
  • IBM Qiskit
  • Google Cirq
  • Quipper
  • Microsoft Quantum Development Kit
• Extensive knowledge of cryptographic protocols including RSA, AES, and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
• Expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum-resistant algorithms, and cryptographic modernization initiatives.
• Knowledge of cryptographic standards and compliance frameworks including NIST and ISO/IEC 19790.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, Java, or similar programming languages used for implementing and testing cryptographic solutions.
• Experience utilizing classical and quantum simulation environments.
• Proven ability to develop and advise on cryptographic migration strategies aligned with post-quantum security requirements.
• Experience assessing enterprise cryptographic inventories and prioritizing modernization efforts.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts and quantum-related risks to executive leadership and non-technical audiences.
• Experience developing policy recommendations and technical guidance aligned with NIST PQC standards, including FIPS 203, FIPS 204, and FIPS 205.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with experience operating within structured program environments.

• Must be able to successfully obtain and maintain a Tier 4 / High Risk Background Investigation.

• Remote position supporting Eastern Time Zone operations.
• Meetings and coordination activities may occur at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office (VACO), 811 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC.
• Routine onsite support is not anticipated.

• Available during normal Federal Government workdays.
• Responsive during core business hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

• Support program-related meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagements as required.
• Government estimates approximately two trips per year, totaling seven trips across the life of the contract.

MKS2 delivers innovative technology and cybersecurity solutions that support critical federal missions. As a Quantum Computing / Cryptography Engineer, you will play a key role in helping government organizations prepare for the future of cybersecurity by developing strategies and solutions that address the emerging challenges posed by quantum computing. This position offers the opportunity to influence enterprise-wide security modernization efforts within a highly collaborative, mission-driven environment.