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Quantum Optimization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc.

$150 - $200/hr

You will contribute to discovering cutting-edge quantum algorithms, rigorously optimizing their performance, and identifying valuable applications across a variety of industries. Whether your primary ...

QCi

Software Engineer, Quantum Algorithms (Optimization) Location: Hoboken, NJ Division: Technology Department: Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative ...

QCi

Senior Engineer, Quantum Algorithms

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

Software Engineer, Quantum Algorithms (Optimization) Location: Hoboken, NJ Division: Technology Department: Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative ...

IonQ

Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications

$145K - $191K/yr

Hands-on expertise developing or optimizing quantum algorithms in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning * Track record of delivering innovative quantum solutions ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Quantum Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

Experience with pulse-level control, Hamiltonian engineering, and quantum control/optimization. * Familiarity with benchmarking and characterization of quantum hardware primitives. * Experience ...

Socket.dev

Quantum Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Experience with pulse-level control, Hamiltonian engineering, and quantum control/optimization. * Familiarity with benchmarking and characterization of quantum hardware primitives. * Experience ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Quantum Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

Experience with pulse-level control, Hamiltonian engineering, and quantum control/optimization. * Familiarity with benchmarking and characterization of quantum hardware primitives. * Experience ...

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Quantum Optimization information

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How much do quantum optimization jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for quantum optimization in the United States is $59.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is quantum optimization?

Quantum optimization refers to the use of quantum computing techniques to solve optimization problems more efficiently than classical computers. These problems often involve finding the best solution from a large set of possibilities, such as scheduling, logistics, or financial modeling. Quantum algorithms, like the Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA), leverage quantum mechanics to process information in ways that can outperform traditional methods for certain problem types. Researchers and companies are exploring quantum optimization to tackle complex challenges that are currently intractable for classical computers.

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

To excel as a Quantum Optimization Specialist, you need a strong background in quantum mechanics, optimization algorithms, mathematics, and typically a degree in physics, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with quantum programming languages (such as Qiskit or Cirq), high-performance computing, and experience with quantum hardware or simulators are essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are critical for developing innovative solutions to complex optimization problems and advancing practical quantum computing applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in quantum optimization, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Quantum Optimization often encounter challenges such as limited access to high-performing quantum hardware, the need to keep up with rapidly evolving algorithms, and integrating quantum solutions with existing classical optimization workflows. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, continuously updating technical skills through ongoing education, and leveraging cloud-based quantum computing resources. Building strong communication with researchers and software engineers also helps in translating theoretical advancements into practical applications.

What is the difference between Quantum Optimization vs Quantum Algorithm Developer?

AspectQuantum OptimizationQuantum Algorithm Developer
Required CredentialsDegree in Quantum Computing, Computer Science, or related field; certifications in quantum algorithmsSimilar credentials; often holds advanced degrees in quantum physics or computer science
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, academia focusing on optimization problemsResearch institutions, tech firms developing quantum algorithms for various applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like logistics, finance, supply chain for optimization tasksUsed across industries for developing new quantum algorithms and software

Quantum Optimization specialists focus on applying quantum computing techniques to solve complex optimization problems, while Quantum Algorithm Developers design and implement new quantum algorithms, including those for optimization. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, but their core focus differs: one applies existing methods, the other innovates new algorithms.

What other helpful pages are available for Quantum Optimization?

Other pages related to Quantum Optimization:

Infographic showing various Quantum Optimization job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,067 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Quantum Test Architect

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Mesa Quantum Systems
See more jobs at Mesa Quantum Systemsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Define, own, and standardize methodologies, qualification criteria, and equipment infrastructure used to evaluate quantum photonic devices prior to shipment.

  • Design and standardize test equipment architecture and measurement infrastructure to enable repeatable qualification across product generations.

  • Lead the bring-up, debugging, and optimization of precision electronic test systems, diagnosing signal integrity issues and resolving measurement challenges.

Job description

Quantum Test Architect

Location: Albuquerque, NM (on-site)  Reports to: CTO

About the Role

Mesa Quantum is establishing a pre-shipment testing and qualification site in Albuquerque, NM to support a portfolio of quantum photonic products. The Quantum Test Architect will define, own, and standardize the methodologies, qualification criteria, and equipment infrastructure used to evaluate devices prior to shipment. This role serves as the technical authority for test definition and qualification standards, ensuring that measurement approaches remain scientifically rigorous while supporting reliable, scalable execution. The role partners closely with Colorado-based R&D teams to align qualification standards with device development.

Key Responsibilities
  • Own the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for pre-shipment device qualification.
  • Establish qualification philosophy, pass/fail criteria, and performance thresholds based on quantum photonic device requirements.
  • Design and standardize test equipment architecture and measurement infrastructure to enable repeatable qualification across future product generations.
  • Ensure alignment between R&D validation approaches and production qualification workflows.
  • Lead the bring-up, debugging, and optimization of precision electronic test systems by diagnosing signal integrity issues, mitigating electrical noise, and resolving complex measurement challenges.
  • Lead structured reviews of qualification outcomes and nonconformance trends, identifying opportunities for process improvement.
  • Drive continuous refinement of qualification methodologies as products, technologies, and customer requirements evolve.
  • Influence engineering decisions by translating characterization results into actionable technical recommendations.
  • Serve as a technical representative in discussions with collaborators, partners, and prospective customers.
  • Support the long-term scalability, robustness, and traceability of qualification infrastructure.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
  • 5–12 years of experience in quantum devices, advanced photonics, semiconductor validation, precision hardware testing, or related industries.
  • Demonstrated experience defining qualification criteria, validation strategies, or test methodologies.
  • Strong understanding of optical and/or electrical measurement systems and performance metrics, including diagnosing electrical noise and signal integrity issues.
  • Experience translating device-level physics into repeatable test procedures.
  • Hands-on experience with precision instrumentation (oscilloscopes, source measure units, network analyzers, signal generators, or similar).
  • Strong technical communication skills and experience collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Comfort operating in a fast-paced, scaling hardware environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with automated test development using Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar tools.
  • Experience with hardware characterization, design verification, or production validation.
  • Understanding of measurement uncertainty, repeatability, and statistical data analysis.
  • Experience with semiconductor, photonics, VCSEL, atomic sensing, or quantum technologies.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing scale-up or qualification infrastructure.
What Success Looks Like
  • Clear, rigorous qualification standards aligned with product performance requirements.
  • Stable, scalable, and repeatable test infrastructure.
  • Effective alignment between Colorado R&D and New Mexico qualification workflows.
  • Qualification decisions trusted by engineering, manufacturing, partners, and customers.
  • Structured documentation supporting traceable qualification decisions.