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Quantum Hardware Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Quantum Space

Reliability Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$104K - $131K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft ... In this role, you will perform reliability analyses, influence system architecture and hardware ...

Umd

Maryland Quantum NEXUS

College Park, MD · On-site

... and engineers. Our program focuses less on theory, advanced mathematics, and research practice and more on the day-to-day mix of hardware, software, and experimental skills needed to run quantum ...

Umd

ARLIS Quantum Research Professional

College Park, MD · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Positions may include a focus on algorithms development; applications analysis; hardware development, test, and evaluation; literature research and analysis; and systems engineering for quantum ...

Umd

Maryland Quantum NEXUS

College Park, MD

... and engineers. Our program focuses less on theory, advanced mathematics, and research practice and more on the day-to-day mix of hardware, software, and experimental skills needed to run quantum ...

Beyond SOF

Nvidia Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

The Nvidia Engineer is responsible for developing and optimizing software and hardware solutions ... Develop and optimize quantum computing solutions using Nvidia's quantum computing platforms.

Quantum Space

Software Systems Engineer III

Rockville, MD · On-site

$176K - $209K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft ... Experience leading multidisciplinary technical efforts across software and hardware engineering ...

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All JobsQuantum Hardware Engineer JobsQuantum Hardware Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Quantum Hardware Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$53.1K

$152.1K

$204.4K

How much do quantum hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum hardware engineer in Reston, VA is $152,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,500.00 and $169,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quantum hardware engineer?

Quantum Hardware Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the physical systems that enable quantum computing. They work on building and optimizing quantum processors, cryogenic systems, control electronics, and other hardware components necessary for quantum computers. Their role is essential for advancing the practical implementation of quantum technologies, collaborating closely with physicists, software engineers, and researchers to push the boundaries of computational power. These engineers often have backgrounds in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science, and are skilled in both theoretical and hands-on laboratory work.

What are some common challenges faced by quantum hardware engineers when scaling up quantum systems?

Quantum Hardware Engineers often encounter significant challenges when scaling quantum systems, such as maintaining qubit coherence and minimizing error rates as the number of qubits increases. Integrating control electronics and cryogenic systems while ensuring signal fidelity is another complex aspect of the role. Collaboration with physicists, materials scientists, and software engineers is essential to troubleshoot hardware limitations and develop scalable architectures. Overcoming these challenges requires creative problem-solving and a multidisciplinary approach, making the role both demanding and highly rewarding.

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

To thrive as a Quantum Hardware Engineer, you need a deep understanding of quantum physics, electrical engineering, and materials science, often supported by an advanced degree (such as a PhD) in a related field. Familiarity with technical tools like cryogenic systems, microwave electronics, and quantum measurement instruments, as well as programming languages such as Python, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills distinguish top candidates in this role. These competencies are critical for designing, building, and optimizing complex quantum devices that advance the field of quantum computing.

What is the difference between Quantum Hardware Engineer vs Quantum Software Engineer?

AspectQuantum Hardware EngineerQuantum Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; experience with hardware design and fabricationBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; programming skills in Python, C++, or similar
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hardware prototyping facilities, clean roomsSoftware development environments, cloud platforms, simulation tools
Employer & Industry UsageQuantum tech companies, research labs, hardware manufacturersTech firms, research institutions, software companies working on quantum algorithms

Quantum Hardware Engineers focus on designing, building, and testing physical quantum devices, while Quantum Software Engineers develop algorithms and software to run on quantum hardware. Both roles are essential in advancing quantum technology but differ in their focus and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Quantum Hardware Engineer job openings:

Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Quantum Hardware Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,131 per year, or $73.1 per hour.

Reliability Engineer

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD • On-site

$104K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking a Reliability Engineer to ensure the reliability, safety,
and mission assurance of our next-generation spacecraft and supporting systems. In this role, you will perform reliability analyses, influence system architecture and hardware design, support environmental testing and failure investigations, and help establish the processes that ensure mission success throughout the product lifecycle. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about building next-generation space systems that support mission success.
Where You'll Make an Impact
  • Perform functional and interface Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analyses (FMEA/FMECA) at the part, assembly, and system levels, and maintain the Critical Items List (CIL).
  • Develop Fault Tree Analyses (FTA), Reliability Block Diagrams (RBD), and reliability predictions including MTBF and MTTF to support design trades, redundancy decisions, and sparing strategies.
  • Apply physics-of-failure methodologies, Weibull analysis, accelerated life testing, and probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) to evaluate mission-critical hardware.
  • Support EEE parts reliability through component selection and derating, parts stress analysis, worst-case analysis, and radiation effects screening in accordance with EEE-INST-002.
  • Monitor GIDEP alerts and supplier advisories, tracking limited-life and limited-shelf-life components throughout the production lifecycle.
  • Partner with design and systems engineering teams to integrate reliability requirements into spacecraft architecture, supplier selection, and manufacturing processes early in development.
  • Provide actionable reliability analyses that influence redundancy, design margins, and component selection while maintaining documentation for technical reviews and audits.
  • Support environmental qualification, life testing, and verification activities by reviewing test plans, evaluating results, and assessing reliability impacts.
  • Tailor reliability activities to mission risk classifications while maintaining rigorous standards for safety-critical and range safety systems.
  • Help develop and continuously improve Quantum Space's reliability engineering processes, procedures, analysis templates, and requirements within our AS9100 Rev D Quality Management System.

What It Takes
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Approximately 5+ years of reliability, mission assurance, or closely related engineering experience supporting flight hardware or similarly high-reliability systems; senior candidates typically possess 8-10+ years of relevant experience.
  • Hands-on experience developing FMEA/FMECA, FTA, Reliability Block Diagrams (RBD), and reliability predictions.
  • Working knowledge of reliability and mission assurance standards including NASA-STD-8729.1, MIL-STD-882, and EEE-INST-002.
  • Experience applying reliability engineering principles to complex aerospace or high-reliability systems.
  • Strong technical writing and analytical skills with the ability to assess risk and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary engineering teams in a fast-paced development environment.
  • Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR/EAR regulations.

Nice-to-Have Experience
  • Master's degree in an engineering discipline or ASQ Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) certification.
  • Direct spacecraft, satellite, or flight hardware development experience.
  • Familiarity with NASA reliability, workmanship, and mission assurance standards.
  • Experience with PLM/PDM tools such as Creo and Windchill.
  • Familiarity with propulsion systems, pressure systems, batteries, ordnance, or other safety-critical spacecraft subsystems.
  • Experience supporting rideshare launch programs or range safety requirements.

What You'll Get
  • Ownership - Own reliability analyses and mission assurance activities that directly influence spacecraft design, qualification, and mission success.
  • Innovation - Apply advanced reliability engineering techniques to improve the performance, safety, and resilience of next-generation spacecraft systems.
  • Impact - Partner across engineering disciplines to identify and mitigate technical risks, ensuring reliable spacecraft performance from development through launch.
  • Growth - Collaborate with experienced aerospace engineers while helping mature Quantum Space's reliability engineering and mission assurance capabilities.
  • Compensation - Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.

Location: Rockville, MD
Base Salary: $120,000 - $180,000
The salary range for this role is determined based on a variety of factors including work experience, education, technical expertise, certifications, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual under 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Apply