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Quantum Engineering Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Quantum Engineering Internship information

What is a quantum engineering internship?

Quantum Engineering Internships are temporary positions offered by companies, research institutions, or universities that allow students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of quantum engineering. Interns may work on projects involving quantum computing, quantum communication, or quantum sensing, often assisting with research, experiments, or the development of quantum technologies. These internships provide valuable exposure to cutting-edge quantum hardware or software, and help participants develop practical skills, expand professional networks, and explore potential career paths in the growing quantum industry.

What types of projects does a quantum engineering intern typically work on, and how do they collaborate with full-time engineers?

Quantum Engineering interns often contribute to research and development projects such as designing and testing quantum circuits, developing control software, or assisting with quantum hardware experiments. Interns typically work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including physicists, software engineers, and hardware specialists. Collaboration is key, and interns regularly attend team meetings, participate in code reviews, and present their findings. This structure provides hands-on experience and valuable mentorship, allowing interns to develop both technical and teamwork skills crucial for a future career in quantum engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quantum engineering intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quantum Engineering Intern, you generally need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, often demonstrated through relevant coursework or a degree in a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python, quantum computing frameworks (such as Qiskit or Cirq), and laboratory equipment is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for contributing to complex quantum research and development projects, ensuring accurate experimentation, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Quantum Engineering Internship vs Quantum Research Assistant?

AspectQuantum Engineering InternshipQuantum Research Assistant
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or early graduate students, relevant courseworkGraduate students or recent graduates, advanced coursework or research experience
Work EnvironmentIndustry labs, tech companies, research institutionsAcademic labs, university research projects
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, industry-focused researchUniversities, academic research centers

The Quantum Engineering Internship typically targets students gaining industry experience in quantum technologies, while the Quantum Research Assistant role involves supporting academic research projects. Internships are more industry-oriented, whereas research assistant positions are academic-focused, often requiring advanced coursework or research background.

Are quantum engineers in demand?

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

Do quantum engineering interns get paid?

Quantum engineering internships are typically paid positions, with interns receiving compensation for their work. Payment amounts vary depending on the company, location, and internship duration, and some internships may also offer stipends or academic credit. Interns often work on projects involving quantum algorithms, hardware, or software tools like Qiskit or Cirq.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Quantum Engineering Internship jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Quantum Engineering Internship job openings:

Leadership Development Program - Operations, Quality Engineering Track (Starts June 2027)

Prattwhitney

Arlington, VA • On-site

$59 - $139/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Pratt & Whitney rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 157 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

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)-Quality Engineering Track 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 three 8-month rotational assignments across various U.S. locations, adapting quickly to new manufacturing facilities, business units, and operational quality teams. Execute core engineering duties and technical milestones within one or more specialized quality disciplines, including Operations Quality, Supplier Quality, Regulatory Compliance, Escape Management, Continuous Improvement, and Customer/Program Quality. Participate in frontline, hands‑on shop floor assignments to identify, analyze, and resolve technical quality challenges. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to identify and drive performance, process safety, and product quality improvements across production environments and development labs. Support regulatory compliance audits, escape management investigations, and root‑cause analysis to ensure product integrity and minimize operational risk. Leverage engineering and data analytics tools to optimize quality planning, evaluate operational metrics, and eliminate process waste.

Qualifications

You Must Have Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) major. Degree must be obtained by start date. Willing and able to operationally relocate to various RTX geographic locations across the United States for three distinct 8‑month program assignments. Experience using data analysis and discrete event simulation tools—such as advanced Excel (including pivot tables and macros/VBA), Minitab, PowerBI, Simio, FlexSim, or MATLAB. Experience applying continuous improvement methodologies and core quality tools, such as 8D structured problem solving, Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Control Plans, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kaizen events, or 5S implementation frameworks or other relevant methods and tools. Relevant internship/co‑op or work experience in engineering, manufacturing, operations quality, production environment or related experience. Experience may be obtained through on-the-job experience, research, coursework, or projects. We Prefer Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from an ABET-accredited institution. Clear, honest, and proactive communication style with the capability to contribute constructively to cross‑functional team discussions. Quick learner with a demonstrated ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks strategically, and remain completely committed to operational objectives. Proven leadership capability paired with strong decision‑making skills and a highly collaborative mindset. Strong analytical problem‑solver who naturally challenges existing processes and thinks critically to develop innovative engineering solutions. Self‑motivated and team‑oriented work style with the agility to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic manufacturing environment. Prior RTX internship, co‑op, or work experience.

What We Offer

Some of the benefits we offer include parental (including paternal) leave, flexible work schedules, achievement awards, educational assistance and child/adult backup care. RTX leadership, functional and business acumen training Upon program completion, LDP graduates possess a solid platform of skills & experiences to launch a successful RTX career & receive continued mentorship.

Benefits
  • 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
  • holidays

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.

Salary

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. 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.

Application Window

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.

Location Flexibility

Applicants MUST be willing/able to relocate for all rotations & have flexibility to travel/live anywhere. Rotation locations will vary & may be onsite, hybrid, or remote.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.

About RTX (Duplicate)

RTX 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, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon. Its 195,000 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, Virginia.

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About Pratt & Whitney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pratt & Whitney has a long history of leadership and innovation in the field of aviation propulsion. Our story begins in the 1920s and has flourished throughout the decades. We have continuously transformed and reinvented our businesses to offer superior products and services to our customers. In 1925, the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was founded by Frederick B. Rentschler, pioneer of the air-cooled radial engine design which enabled unprecedented power-to-weight ratio. Its first engine, the R-1340 Wasp engine, transformed military and commercial aviation and is still in use today. In 1928, the Canadian division of the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was established. In 1944, Pratt & Whitney began its gas turbine and jet propulsion initiative. The company constructed a wind tunnel, laboratory and engineering center to support our allies’ efforts in World War II. In 1945, wartime production included more than 300,000 Pratt & Whitney engines, touted by service members as extremely dependable – a legacy that continues today. From there, Pratt & Whitney continued to design and innovate more powerful, agile, and reliable engines becoming a leader in the aerospace industry. Today, Pratt & Whitney has more than 85,000 engines in service and more than 16,000 customers worldwide.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Hartford, CT, US