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Quantum Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Monarch Quantum

Quantum Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Quantum Systems Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self ...

Monarch Quantum

Quantum Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Quantum Systems Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self ...

Monarch Quantum

Quantum Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Quantum Systems Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a self ...

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Quantum Engineer information

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$38.5K

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$135.7K

How much do quantum engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quantum engineer?

A Quantum Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes quantum-based technologies, such as quantum computers, sensors, and communication systems. They apply principles of quantum mechanics, electrical engineering, and computer science to build and test quantum devices. Their work involves hardware development, quantum algorithms, and error correction techniques. Quantum Engineers often collaborate with physicists and software developers to advance quantum technology for real-world applications.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a quantum engineer?

Quantum Engineers typically spend their days designing and testing quantum algorithms, developing and calibrating quantum hardware, and collaborating with research scientists to solve technical problems. Their work often involves hands-on experimentation in laboratory settings, extensive computer programming, and data analysis using specialized software tools. Quantum Engineers also document their findings, present results to stakeholders, and may contribute to academic publications or patents. This role requires close teamwork with physicists, software developers, and other engineers to advance quantum computing technologies toward real-world applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quantum engineer?

To thrive as a Quantum Engineer, you need strong expertise in quantum mechanics, mathematics, and programming, typically supported by an advanced degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with quantum computing platforms like IBM Qiskit, cryogenic systems, and proficiency in languages such as Python or C++ is often required, along with relevant certifications or research experience. Strong problem-solving skills, effective collaboration, and adaptability are crucial soft skills in this rapidly evolving technical field. Mastering these abilities enables Quantum Engineers to solve complex challenges, drive innovative solutions, and succeed in multidisciplinary, cutting-edge environments.

What do you do as a quantum engineer?

A quantum engineer designs, develops, and tests quantum computing systems and technologies. They work with quantum algorithms, hardware such as qubits, and control systems, often using programming languages like Python and specialized tools. Their role involves research, experimentation, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to advance quantum applications.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Quantum Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Quantum Engineer job openings:

Quantum Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quantum Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,420 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Lead Quantum Engineer, Systems Performance

Rigetti Computing

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Rigetti is seeking a Lead Quantum Engineer for the Systems Performance team.
In this position you will play a critical role in shaping our technical roadmap. You will lead a cross-functional team focused on building the next generation of Rigetti's quantum hardware, and take a high-ownership role in delivering the technologies required to unlock new levels of performance at scale.
In your daily work, you will propose new ideas to push the performance and scalability of superconducting qubit systems, design and execute experiments to test those ideas, and lead a diverse set of engineers and scientists to identify and mitigate key performance gaps.
The right candidate will have a demonstrated track record of scientific success across multiple institutions, technical leadership experience, a high-ownership mentality, and strong organization and communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, build, and lead cross-functional experimental programs to inform the technical roadmap and drive systems-level improvements.
  • Propose and explore new technical directions.
  • Identify and address complex gaps in existing technology.
  • Own the delivery of key quantum hardware technologies.

About You
  • PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Prior technical role in an industry or start-up environment.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership experience.
  • Direct experience with cryogenic systems and RF measurement techniques
  • Extensive hands-on experience with time-domain measurement, and superconducting quantum devices.
  • Track record of meaningful accomplishments in quantum science or related fields.
  • Working knowledge of Python.
  • Enjoys teamwork and inter-team collaboration.
  • Excellent communication skills.

Nice to Have
  • Strong coding skills.
  • Familiarity with cQED simulation tools.

$190,000 - $225,000 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.
Don't see the job you want? Apply here so we can keep in touch with you when the right role opens up in the future!
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.

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