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Quantum Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experimental Quantum Physicist

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$240 - $300/hr

We design, deploy, and operate on-premises superconducting systems, apply machine learning to characterize quantum system behavior, and translate those findings into specialized hardware products.

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most ... In this role as Mechanical Design Drafter, you will focus primarily on the development of the CAD ...

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Quantum Design information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$42

How much do quantum design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for quantum design in California is $25.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Quantum Design?

Quantum Design refers to the field of designing and developing devices, materials, or systems that exploit the principles of quantum mechanics. This often involves creating advanced scientific instruments used in physics and materials science research, such as magnetometers, cryogenic systems, or quantum computing hardware. Professionals in this field may work on engineering solutions at atomic and subatomic scales, contributing to breakthroughs in technology and fundamental science. The work requires a strong background in physics, engineering, and materials science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Quantum Design, and why are they important?

To thrive in Quantum Design, you need a strong background in physics, engineering, or materials science, often supported by an advanced degree and experience with quantum systems. Familiarity with simulation software, laboratory instrumentation, and programming languages such as Python or MATLAB is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities enable professionals to develop innovative quantum devices and experiments, driving advancements in technology and research.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Quantum Design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Quantum Design often encounter challenges related to the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of their work, which combines physics, engineering, and computational modeling. Staying updated with rapid advancements in quantum technologies and collaborating effectively with researchers from various backgrounds can be demanding. To address these challenges, it helps to engage in continuous learning, participate in cross-functional team meetings, and leverage mentorship or networking opportunities within the organization. Collaborative problem-solving and open communication are key to navigating the fast-evolving landscape of quantum design.

What is the difference between Quantum Design vs Quantum Engineer?

AspectQuantum DesignQuantum Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; often requires programming skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, corporate R&DResearch labs, development teams, technology companies
Industry UsageScientific instrumentation, research equipment manufacturingQuantum computing, hardware development, software integration

Quantum Design professionals typically focus on designing and manufacturing scientific instruments, while Quantum Engineers develop quantum hardware and software solutions. Both roles require strong technical backgrounds, but Quantum Engineers often have more programming and systems integration skills. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the quantum industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Quantum Design jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Quantum Design jobs in California?

For Quantum Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quantum Design jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Quantum Design jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Quantum Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Quantum Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Quantum Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,880 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Senior Quantum Systems Validation Engineer

PsiQuantum

Milpitas, CA โ€ข On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

PsiQuantum'smission 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 approachisbased on silicon photonics. Byleveragingthe 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: photonsdon'tfeel heat, are immune to electromagnetic interference, and integrate with existing cryogenic cooling and standard fiber-optic infrastructure.

In 2024,PsiQuantumannounced 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.

PsiQuantumalso 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. Itrepresentsa fundamental shift-and a path to mastering challenges that cannot besolvedany other way. The potential is enormous, and we have a clearpathto make it real.

Come join us.

Job Summary:

At PsiQuantum we are developing and testing prototype quantum computer systems with complex software and hardware including integrated photonics, optics, electronics, and cryogenics subsystems. The Quantum Systems Validation team is responsible for characterizing the performance of integrated quantum optical systems and subsystems. The Quantum Systems Validation Engineer is responsible for developing and executing tests to validate the design of these systems, verify their correct functioning.

Responsibilities:

  • Design and execute tests to deliver engineering data and validate photonic quantum computer systems performance.
  • Work with design teams to develop, define, and document validation objectives and ensure that the system design supports validation requirements.
  • Develop calibration, self-test, and control procedures for quantum photonic systems. Develop and document requirements for the software and electronics teams to implement procedures and manage data.
  • Analyze, reduce, and deliver experimental data. Work with other engineering teams to ensure that the data informs engineering models for system performance.
  • Debug software and hardware and work with other engineering teams to conduct failure analysis and resolve design or manufacturing issues as appropriate.
  • Communicate validation outcomes broadly to internal stakeholders and help guide corrective actions.
  • Support and provide technical direction to junior quantum validation engineers. Lead and coordinate complex validation activities involving multiple members of the validation team.

Experience/Qualifications:

  • M.S. level (Ph. D. preferred) or equivalent experience in Electrical Engineering, experimental Physics, or a related field with significant work experience in industry or academia.
  • Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex experiments or engineering tests in a cross-functional environment.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership in
  • Broad technical knowledge with ability to dive deep into technical aspects of our systems including hardware, software, precision measurement, and photonics.
  • Software development for instrumentation, controls, and test equipment (python preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience with some, or all, of the following preferred:
    • Quantum optics, single photon generation and detection
    • Quantum characterization, verification, and validation
    • Quantum information theory
    • Integrated silicon photonics
    • Mixed-signal, analog, RF electronics design and test
    • Electro-optical device design and test
  • Proven team player with an ability to work effectively across departments, sites, time zones.
  • Ability to work independently with limited direction and own responsibility for delivering validation objectives.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences including senior leadership and technical experts.
  • Demonstrated interest in PsiQuantum's mission and vision for quantum computing, with an ability to contribute within a fast-paced start-up environment consistent with PsiQuantum's values of communication, collaboration, respect, results, and challenge.

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.

Base pay is one part of the total compensation package. Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits.Our compensation ranges reflect the cost of labor across multiple U.S. geographicmarkets, and we pay based on defined geographic zones. This position may be filled withinone of thefollowingU.S.geographic zones, each with its own salary range.

Actual compensation may vary outside of these ranges and is dependent onvarious factorsincluding, but not limited to, a candidate's qualifications, relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, business needs, and internal equity. Your recruiter can share more details about the salary range applicable to your location during the hiring process.

  • Zone 1- Bay Area and NYC
  • Zone 2-Examples include LosAngelesandWashington DC
  • Zone 3-Examples include Austin, Chicago,and Sacramento
  • Zone 4-Examples include Nashville and Phoenix/Tempe and manyremote locations

This position includes the following benefits: competitive health coverage for you and your dependents, 401(k) with company match, equity grants, access to financial wellness tools and planning resources, wellness benefits, family support programs, life and disability insurance, paid leave programs, company-designated paid holidays, discretionary time off (DTO), and an end-of-year company shutdown. Some of these benefits have eligibility requirements and may vary based on location, role, or employment status. Many of these benefits are subsidized or fully paid for by the company.

The estimated annual base salary rangefor this role is:

Zone 1
$151,800โ€”$178,400 USD
Zone 2
$136,700โ€”$160,600 USD
Zone 3
$121,500โ€”$142,700 USD
Zone 4
$106,300โ€”$124,900 USD