1

Quantum Hardware Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Reliability Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$104K - $131K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Quantum Hardware Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$52.7K

$151.2K

$203.1K

How much do quantum hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum hardware engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $151,169.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,700.00 and $168,500.00 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 Silver Spring, MD?

For Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Quantum Hardware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Quantum Hardware Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Quantum Hardware Engineer job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $151,169 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Quantum Computing / Cryptography Engineer

ClearFocus Technologies

Washington, DC • On-site

$93K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

ClearFocus Technologies, a HUBZone certified company, is located in Leesburg, VA.We specialize in cybersecurity and support multiple government and commercial clients for a variety of missions. We value our clients, integrity and employees and believe a single person can make a difference!
We are committed to attracting and retaining the best and brightest talent who desire to work with industry leading technology to stay on top of their profession. We provide an excellent benefit package which includes medical, dental, vision, paid time off, 401(k), paid professional development reimbursement and more!
We are seeking a Quantum Computing / Cryptography Engineer for an opportunity that is onsite in Washington, DC. A Public Trust clearance is highly preferred.
Job Description -
Owns the post-quantum cryptography scope for the task order - cryptographic inventory, migration planning, and the analysis behind both. This is the scarcest skill on the team and the role Volume I positions as a discriminator.
Required qualifications:
  • Cryptographic inventory and post-quantum migration planning at enterprise scale
  • Working knowledge of the NIST post-quantum standards and CNSA 2.0 timelines
  • Ability to translate cryptographic risk into a migration sequence a government stakeholder will fund
  • Fifteen years of experience - this is the GSA billing floor for Principal Consultant and is not waivable
  • 15+ years of experience and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
  • One of the following certifications - IAT III, IAM III or IASAE III
  • Able to obtain a Tier 4 / High Risk Public Trust

Preferred qualifications:
  • NSM-10 implementation experience
  • Hardware security module and PKI migration work
  • Federal agency crypto modernization