Intern Quantum Software Engineer Jobs in California

PsiQuantum's mission is to build the first useful quantum computers-machines capable of delivering the breakthroughs the field has long promised. Since our founding in 2016, our singular focus has been to build and deploy million-qubit, fault-tolerant quantum systems. 

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most advanced supercomputers or AI systems will never reach. Their impact will span energy, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials, and other foundational industries. 

Our architecture and approach is based on silicon photonics. By leveraging the advanced semiconductor manufacturing industry-including partners like GlobalFoundries-we use the same high-volume processes that already produce billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics. Photonics offers natural advantages for scale: photons don't feel heat, are immune to electromagnetic interference, and integrate with existing cryogenic cooling and standard fiber-optic infrastructure. 

In 2024, PsiQuantum announced government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia, and Chicago, Illinois. These initiatives reflect a growing recognition that quantum computing will be strategically and economically defining-and that now is the time to scale. 

PsiQuantum also develops the algorithms and software needed to make these systems commercially valuable. Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies-including Lockheed Martin, Mercedes-Benz, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Mitsubishi Chemical-to prepare quantum solutions for real-world impact. 

Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. It represents a fundamental shift-and a path to mastering challenges that cannot be solved any other way. The potential is enormous, and we have a clear path to make it real. 

Come join us. 

Job Summary:

*We are currently only reviewing applications of candidate's that have their Ph.D. or are currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program. 

Quantum architecture internships offer a chance to work in cutting edge research to move quantum computing from a theoretical concept to a real-world technology. As an intern you will work with our quantum architecture team to contribute to the development of a full-stack quantum computing architecture. Topics can include theory and modelling of linear optical networks, fusion-based quantum computing, fault tolerance, decoding methods, logical architecture, simulation and modeling methods.

Internships take place through ought the year with durations from 3 to 6 months. We offer placement opportunities in Palo Alto, California (United States), Brisbane (Australia) as well remote positions. Location options will be dependent on the internship project topic.

The internship role requires a challenging mix of creativity, analytical skills, and knowledge in one of the above areas. Enthusiasm for quantum computing is essential!

Responsibilities:

• Develop and study methods for fault-tolerant FBQC.
• Project topics could include: linear optical networks, FBQC protocols, quantum error correcting codes, decoding methods, simulation and modelling methods
• Model the origin and propagation of errors.
• Simulate and benchmark different protocols.
• Document and communicate results.

Experience/Qualifications:

• Degree in Physics, Math or Computer Science or equivalent required.
• Currently studying for, or completed a postgraduate degree related to linear optics, fault tolerance
  or another aspect of quantum computing.
• Knowledge of quantum information is required. Familiarity with some of the following is desirable: quantum networks, graph states, stabilizer methods, quantum error-correcting codes, linear optical quantum computing, error modelling, graphical calculus (e.g, tensor networks, ZX calculus).
• Experience programming in Python, C++ or similar languages.
• Competent use of collaborative software development tools (e.g., GitHub) is desirable.
• A creative and adaptable approach to problem solving.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative team.

Education level COMPLETED 

Hourly Rate 

Housing/Commuter Stipend 

Bachelors: In Process 

$27.50 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

Bachelor's Degree 

$31.00 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

Master's: 1st Year 

$36.00 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

Master's Degree 

$40.00 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

PhD: In Process 

$44.00 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

PhD: Near Completion 

$47.00 

Variable based on permanent residency location 

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.
Note: PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to recruiting@psiquantum.com.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.