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Quantum Computing Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sr Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

... our Quantum Computing mission forward. At Infleqtion we embrace a startup mentality driven by ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join the team building the control system software for ...

Senior Government Programs Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$119K - $120K/yr

Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. It represents a fundamental shift-and ... engineering/product teams to improve the development of PsiQuantum deliverables and products.

Senior Government Programs Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. Itrepresentsa fundamental shift-and a ... engineering/product teams to improve the development of PsiQuantum deliverables and products.

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

... promise of quantum computing, sensing, and communications stalls. Photon Queue is the ... Role Summary The Senior Optical Engineer owns the optical engine of Photon Queue's quantum memory ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

... promise of quantum computing, sensing, and communications stalls. Photon Queue is the ... Role Summary The Senior Optical Engineer owns the optical engine of Photon Queue's quantum memory ...

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$131K - $175K/yr

... drive our Quantum Computing mission forward. We encourage applications from engineers with ... expertise in high-performance signal processing in programmable logic , particularly those with ...

... drive our Quantum Computing mission forward. We encourage applications from engineers with ... expertise in high-performance signal processing in programmable logic , particularly those with ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

... quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in sensing and computing ... The engineer will also serve as a point-of-contact (POC) for subsystem hardware integration with ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

... quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in sensing and computing ... The engineer will also serve as a point-of-contact (POC) for subsystem hardware integration with ...

Manager, Cloud Engineer - Terraform

Chicago, IL

$57.50 - $76.75/hr

... and quantum computing to design and implement real-world solutions for a variety of business ... KPMG is currently seeking a Manager, Cloud Engineer for our Consulting practice. Responsibilities ...

Patent Agent

Chicago, IL · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

The patent prosecution team is presently 35+ attorneys, 10 patent agents & engineers, and 15 ... Artificial Intelligence or Quantum Computing experience a plus. The above is intended to describe ...

... and quantum computing to design and implement real-world solutions for a variety of business ... engineering excellence, and operational rigor. Qualifications: * Minimum five years of recent ...

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Quantum Computing Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$27.6K

$105K

$182.1K

How much do quantum computing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum computing engineer in Illinois is $105,031.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,095.00 and $128,112.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are quantum engineers in demand?

Quantum engineers are in high demand due to the growing development of quantum technologies, including quantum computing, cryptography, and sensing. Employers seek professionals with expertise in quantum algorithms, hardware, and programming languages like Qiskit or Cirq, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. The field is expected to expand as quantum applications become more commercially viable.

Are quantum engineers paid well?

Quantum engineers typically earn high salaries due to the specialized skills required in quantum computing, including knowledge of quantum algorithms, hardware, and programming languages like Qiskit or Cirq. Salaries vary by experience, location, and industry, but they are generally above average compared to other engineering roles in technology fields.

What are some common challenges Quantum Computing Engineers face when developing algorithms for quantum hardware?

Quantum Computing Engineers often encounter challenges related to the instability and error rates of current quantum hardware, which can affect the reliability of algorithm results. Additionally, translating classical algorithms into quantum circuits requires a deep understanding of both quantum theory and complex optimization techniques. Collaboration with physicists and hardware engineers is essential to troubleshoot issues and adapt algorithms to the unique constraints of each quantum platform. Staying updated with rapid technological advancements is also crucial for success in this evolving field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quantum Computing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quantum Computing Engineer, you need a strong background in quantum mechanics, computer science, mathematics, and typically a graduate degree in a related field. Familiarity with quantum programming languages (such as Qiskit or Cirq), quantum hardware platforms, and simulation tools is essential, and certifications in quantum technologies are increasingly valuable. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills, enabling collaboration and innovation in interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for advancing quantum computing research and developing practical quantum solutions to complex problems.

What is the difference between Quantum Computing Engineer vs Quantum Software Developer?

AspectQuantum Computing EngineerQuantum Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering; knowledge of quantum mechanicsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields; programming skills in quantum languages
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, academia; hardware and software focusSoftware development teams, tech firms; coding and algorithm design
Employer & Industry UsageQuantum hardware companies, research institutions, tech giantsTech companies, startups, research labs focusing on quantum algorithms

While both roles involve quantum technologies, Quantum Computing Engineers focus on hardware integration and system design, whereas Quantum Software Developers primarily work on creating algorithms and software for quantum computers. The roles often overlap but differ in their core focus areas within the quantum industry.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced quantum computing engineers with advanced skills in quantum algorithms, hardware, and programming can earn salaries around $500,000 annually, especially in senior or leadership roles at major technology companies or research institutions. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other benefits reflecting their expertise and impact in the field.

What does a quantum computing engineer do?

A quantum computing engineer designs, develops, and tests quantum algorithms and hardware to advance quantum technology. They work with quantum programming languages, such as Qiskit or Cirq, and often collaborate with physicists and computer scientists to optimize quantum systems for practical applications.

What is a Quantum Computing Engineer?

A Quantum Computing Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and optimizes quantum computer systems and algorithms. They work on both the hardware and software aspects of quantum computers, aiming to harness quantum mechanics principles to solve complex computational problems. Their work often involves collaborating with physicists, computer scientists, and mathematicians to create new quantum technologies and applications. Quantum Computing Engineers play a key role in advancing fields like cryptography, material science, and machine learning.
What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Computing Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Quantum Computing Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Quantum Computing Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Quantum Computing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Quantum Computing Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,031 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Sr Software Engineer

Infleqtion

Chicago, IL • On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Infleqtion is on a mission to commercialize atom-based quantum technologies that deliver orders-of-magnitude improvements in sensing and computing applications. We are seeking self-motivated, energetic individuals with exceptional problem-solving and technical skills to help drive our Quantum Computing mission forward.

At Infleqtion we embrace a startup mentality driven by results, urgency, and customer-focused innovation:

  • We break down barriers between disciplines, stepping in wherever we can make the biggest impact.
  • We thrive in uncertainty, embracing challenges as opportunities.
  • We move quickly to prototype while never losing sight of the critical importance of systems engineering process and attention to detail.
  • We take bold, calculated risks to drive progress.

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join the team building the control system software for Infleqtion’s quantum computers. The ideal candidate is an experienced backend engineer with a strong background in creating robust and scalable scientific applications. You will play a crucial role in designing, building, and maintaining backend services and control systems that drive our neutral atom quantum machines.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties and responsibilities outlined below include essential functions of the role. Depending on business needs, this role may perform a combination of some or all of the following duties. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time.

  • Design, develop, and deploy reliable, maintainable, scalable, and fault-tolerant backend services and frameworks that control and calibrate our neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, opto-mechanical engineers, and electrical engineers, to solve complex problems and deliver high-quality software solutions.
  • Empower interdisciplinary teams to create the tools they need by teaching engineering and programming best practices.
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering their growth and enhancing the team's technical expertise.
  • Lead code and design reviews, upholding engineering best practices and promoting a culture of quality and collaboration.
  • Support and debug all layers of the control stack from real-time embedded kernels to distributed services.
  • Advocate for and implement innovative software development methodologies and tools to improve team efficiency and product quality.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics or related field and a minimum of 5 years prior work experience
  • Experience with Python and at least one compiled language, with a desire to learn and work in Rust
  • Experience with Linux and virtualization technologies like Docker
  • Good verbal and written communication skills, able to effectively share information with technical and non-technical staff
  • Good collaboration skills, able to work in a team environment where engagement and participation are an expected part of successful job performance
  • Skilled in typical software engineering disciplines: testing, debugging, revision control, error-handling, readability, documentation, general code health, etc.
  • Desire to constantly improve and learn inside and outside of expertise
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Domain-specific experience in statistics, machine learning, or AMO physics
  • Experience with Numpy, Scipy, and Pytorch
  • Experience with image analysis, emphasis on realtime object detection
  • Experience with databases (relational and non-relational) including but not limited to timeseries data, SQL, and ETL processes
  • Experience creating CI/CD pipelines, and Python package creation with C or Rust extensions

Benefits

The targeted salary range for this role is $106,000 to $145,000 on an annualized basis plus eligibility to participate in our annual incentive plan.

In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:

  • 100% company paid Employee coverage for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short/Long Term Disability insurance programs
  • Employer funded Health Savings Account
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Matching Programs
  • Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Flexible Healthcare Savings Account
  • Paid FMLA Leave
  • Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Employer Assistance Program
  • Student Loan Repayment

Equal Opportunity

Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin color, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.