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Internship Quantum Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Internship Quantum Programmer information

What is an internship quantum programmer?

An Internship Quantum Programmer is a student or recent graduate who works temporarily with a company or research institution to gain hands-on experience in quantum computing. Their tasks typically involve writing and testing quantum algorithms, learning to use quantum programming languages like Qiskit or Cirq, and assisting with research projects. These internships provide valuable exposure to cutting-edge technology and are often stepping stones to careers in quantum computing or related fields. Interns may also attend seminars, collaborate with experienced quantum engineers, and contribute to open-source projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship quantum programmer?

To thrive as an Internship Quantum Programmer, a strong foundation in quantum mechanics, linear algebra, and programming languages such as Python is essential, often supported by enrollment in a relevant STEM degree program. Familiarity with quantum computing frameworks like Qiskit or Cirq and experience using quantum simulators or cloud-based quantum platforms are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly help candidates stand out. These skills are important to effectively develop, test, and optimize quantum algorithms in a rapidly evolving field.

What types of projects and programming languages can I expect to work with during a quantum programming internship?

As a Quantum Programming intern, you'll typically work on projects involving quantum algorithms, simulations, or developing quantum software tools. Common programming languages and frameworks you'll encounter include Qiskit (Python-based), Cirq, and possibly Q# or other quantum SDKs, alongside classical programming languages like Python or C++. Projects may involve tasks such as implementing quantum circuits, optimizing algorithms, or contributing to open-source quantum computing libraries. You'll often collaborate with both quantum researchers and classical software engineers, gaining exposure to cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary teamwork.

What is the difference between Internship Quantum Programmer vs Quantum Software Developer?

AspectInternship Quantum ProgrammerQuantum Software Developer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in CS, Physics, or related fieldsUsually requires a degree in CS, Physics, or related fields with some experience
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in research labs or tech companiesFull-time or contract roles in tech companies or research institutions
Industry UsageEntry-level, educational focus, training periodProfessional development, product development, or research projects
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles in quantum computingUnderstanding professional roles in quantum software development

The main difference is that an Internship Quantum Programmer is an entry-level, temporary position aimed at gaining experience, while a Quantum Software Developer is a full-time professional role focused on developing quantum algorithms and applications. Internships serve as a stepping stone into the industry, whereas developers are involved in ongoing projects and product development.

Leadership Development Program - Operations, Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering Track (Starts...

Raytheon Technologies

Rosslyn, VA • On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


RTX rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-24

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-VA-ARLINGTON-108 ~ 1100 Wilson Blvd ~ ROSSLYN HQ

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

RTX Corporation is an Aerospace and Defense company that provides advanced systems and services for commercial, military and government customers worldwide. It comprises three industry-leading businesses - Collins Aerospace Systems, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon. Its 185,000 employees enable the company to operate at the edge of known science as they imagine and deliver solutions that push the boundaries in quantum physics, electric propulsion, directed energy, hypersonics, avionics and cybersecurity. The company, formed in 2020 through the combination of Raytheon Company and the United Technologies Corporation aerospace businesses, is headquartered in Arlington, VA.

What You Will Do

Discover an extraordinary opportunity to accelerate your engineering career and develop into a future operational leader at RTX. Our Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP)-Manufacturing&Industrial EngineeringTrack provides challenging, high-visibility assignments across the enterprise, allowing you to build a powerful global network. You will receive high-caliber training, professional mentoring, and frontline, hands-on engineering experience directly on our manufacturing shop floors. This fast-paced path expands your business acumen, sharpens your technical expertise, and prepares you to make a lasting impact on our global operations. Actively recruiting for the next cohort and program that begins June 2027.

Key Responsibilities

  • Complete multiple rotational assignments across various U.S. locations, adapting quickly to new manufacturing facilities, business units, and engineering teams.
  • Execute core engineering duties and technical projects within one or more specialized program tracks, including Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Parts Manufacturing, and Operational Efficiency and/or Productivity.
  • Identify and implement shop floor process improvements that increase production output, eliminate waste, and reduce overall costs.
  • Provide day-to-day technical support to shop floor personnel to resolve challenges and implement process improvements in production and development environments.
  • Interpret blueprints and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles to support component manufacturing processes.
  • Utilize advanced design and analytical software to enhance, model, and streamline manufacturing operations.
  • Develop and improve manufacturing planning, operations sequencing, and work instructions to ensure product quality and efficiency.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to apply Lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies, utilizing process data to drive long-term manufacturing strategies.
  • Participate in high-impact special projects involving cost reduction, specialized machining processes, and domestic supplier support activities.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related Engineering discipline. Degree must be obtained by start date.
  • Willing and able to operationally relocate to various RTX geographic locations across the United States for distinct program assignments.
  • Experience or academic exposure interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, or manufacturing process specifications.
  • Experience or coursework utilizing manufacturing design, modeling, or analytical software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Creo, MATLAB, Minitab or other relevant tools
  • Demonstrated experience or coursework utilizing structured process improvement methodologies, such as Lean principles, Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), or 5S frameworks.
  • Relevant internship/co-op or work experience in manufacturing, industrial engineering, quality or test environments

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Proactive and engaged approach to performing hands-on engineering tasks within a dynamic shop floor environment.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability through academic projects, student organizations, or community involvement.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the capability to contribute constructively to cross-functional team discussions.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with an ability to challenge existing processes and develop innovative solutions.
  • Agile and receptive mindset, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and strategic task prioritization.
  • Familiarity or comfort working around modern industrial machine tools and manufacturing equipment.
  • Prior RTX internship, co-op, or work experience

What We Offer

  • Whetheryou'rejust starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package with compensation; healthcare, wellness,retirementand work/life benefits; career development and recognition programs. Some of the benefits we offer include parental (including paternal) leave, flexible work schedules, achievement awards, educationalassistanceand child/adult backup care
  • RTX leadership, functional and business acumen training
  • Upon program completion, LDP graduatespossessa solid platform of skills & experiences to launch a successful RTX career & receivecontinued mentorship

Learn More & Apply Now!

  • Applicants MUST be willing/able torelocatefor all rotations & have flexibility to travel/live anywhere
  • Clickand scroll to downloada LDPOverview and map of onsite locations
  • Rotation locations will vary &may beonsite, hybrid, or remote

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attendselect steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 59,000 USD - 139,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About RTX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing, it services, aerospace product and parts manufacturing and engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

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