Quantum Computing Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Quantum Engineer at Rigetti Computing, you will be a key contributor to the development of our gate-based, superconducting quantum computers. Your work will turn experimental ideas into ever-improving hardware functionality through rigorous characterization of qubits and gates, implementation of new measurement techniques, and interpretation of processor data. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams spanning device design, cryogenic/microwave hardware, control systems, fabrication, and software to push the boundaries of quantum computing to the scale and performance required for practical quantum computing and error correction.
This is a general job posting for experimental physicists that leads to consideration for a targeted role with a specific focus. Topics could include: gate calibration, qubit relaxation and/or dephasing, piloting new research ideas in small processors, integration of new ideas into large processors, or implementation of quantum error correction.
Your training and achievements as an experimental physicist in quantum information mean that you, more than anyone else, already know how hard this will be. And that's why you've sought us out.
Key Responsibilities

• Characterizing experimental devices, assessing their performance, identifying areas for improvement, and providing feedback to internal development teams.
• Providing technical focus and leadership on a particular R&D topic, which could include gate calibration, qubit relaxation and/or dephasing, piloting new research ideas in small processors, integration of new ideas into large processors, or implementation of quantum error correction.
• Collaborating across diverse teams of expert engineers (fab, design, electronics, software, etc.) to turn experimental concepts into robust technologies that work at large QPU scales.
• Staying current with cutting-edge research, synthesizing results from the literature, and implementing state-of-the-art calibration, error diagnostic, and system optimization techniques to enhance device performance.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or similar applied scientific field, or Masters' in Physics with 2+ years relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated abilities in experimental problem solving and experimental research.
• Expertise in the practical implementation of coherent quantum effects and control.
• Proficiency using Python in a scientific context.
• Ability to thrive in a strongly collaborative environment, with a team-first mindset.
• Excellent communication skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience calibrating and characterizing single- and two-qubit quantum gates in superconducting quantum devices.
• Experience utilizing quantum simulation frameworks, such as QuTip.
• Proven capability to execute and effectively communicate outcomes from innovative research and development initiatives.
• Software development experience in a collaborative industry setting.
• Previous technical role in an industrial or startup setting.

$155,000 - $200,000 a year
Base Salary
Rigetti complies with all local and state regulations in regards to displaying salary ranges. Final compensation for this role will be determined by various factors such as a candidate's relevant work experience, skills, and geographic location. Rigetti offers a full slate of benefits from competitive salaries, equity, medical, dental and vision for employees as well as a 401(k) plan, a paid parental leave program, rejuvenation days, and a vacation policy that aligns with local regulations and industry standards.
As engineering leaders, we value diversity and are committed to building a culture of inclusion to attract and engage innovative thinkers. Our technology, meant to serve all of humanity, cannot succeed if those who built it do not mirror the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from women, minorities, and other under-represented groups are encouraged.
About Rigetti
Rigetti Computing is a pioneer in full-stack quantum computing. The company has operated quantum computers over the cloud since 2017 and serves global enterprise, government, and research clients through its Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services platform. The company's proprietary quantum-classical infrastructure provides ultra-low latency integration with public and private clouds for high-performance practical quantum computing. Rigetti has developed the industry's first multi-chip quantum processor for scalable quantum computing systems. The company designs and manufactures its chips in-house at Fab-1, the industry's first dedicated and integrated quantum device manufacturing facility. Rigetti was founded in 2013 and today employs more than 150 people with offices in the United States, U.K., and Australia. Learn more at www.rigetti.com.
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Export Licensing Compliance
Rigetti is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.