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Quantum Physics Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K - $142K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across quantum physics, integrated photonics, electronics, algorithms, software, and engineering. The Senior Research Scientist ...

The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across quantum physics, integrated photonics, electronics, algorithms, software, and engineering. The Senior Research Scientist ...

New

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K - $142K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams across quantum physics, integrated photonics, electronics, algorithms, software, and engineering. The Senior Research Scientist ...

Quantum Research Physicist College Park, Maryland 20742 JTEC Consulting LLC focuses on successfully ... PhD in Physics or related field preferred; qualified candidates with a master's degree in a related ...

Together, these teams form the engine room of Quantum Motion's technology, bridging physics, engineering, and computation to unlock the next generation of quantum capability. As a member of our ...

New

PhD degree in physics, chemistry, or engineering * Proven track record of leadership in dynamical ... Knowledge of quantum information systems and operations * Ability to independently design and carry ...

New

PhD in physics and an active record of independent research within a specialized subfield (e.g., High Energy/Mathematical Physics, Biophysics/Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter, AMO/Quantum Optics ...

PhD in physics and an active record of independent research within a specialized subfield (e.g., High Energy/Mathematical Physics, Biophysics/Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter, AMO/Quantum Optics ...

Showing results 21-40

Quantum Physics information

See Reston, VA salary details

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How much do quantum physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for quantum physics in Reston, VA is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $26.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do quantum physicists do?

Quantum physicists study and explore the fundamental principles governing matter and energy at the smallest scales, such as atoms and subatomic particles. Their work involves conducting experiments, developing theoretical models, and using advanced mathematics to understand phenomena like superposition, entanglement, and quantum tunneling. Quantum physicists often work in academic research, technology development (like quantum computing), or industry labs, contributing to innovations in fields such as electronics, cryptography, and material science.

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

To thrive as a Quantum Physicist, you need an advanced understanding of quantum mechanics, mathematics, and physical sciences, typically supported by a PhD in physics or a related field. Proficiency in computational modeling, laboratory equipment, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on complex research projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing scientific discovery and translating theoretical concepts into practical applications.

What are some common challenges faced by quantum physicists when working on experimental research projects?

Quantum physicists often encounter unique challenges in experimental research, such as dealing with extremely sensitive equipment that can be affected by minute environmental changes like temperature or electromagnetic interference. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams—including engineers and computer scientists—is crucial for overcoming technical hurdles and designing robust experiments. Additionally, because quantum phenomena are not always intuitive, clear communication and extensive documentation are necessary to ensure that results are reproducible and findings are accurately interpreted. These challenges make teamwork, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills essential in this field.

What is the difference between Quantum Physics vs Quantum Mechanics?

AspectQuantum PhysicsQuantum Mechanics
CredentialsPhysics degrees, advanced certificationsPhysics degrees, specialized training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industryResearch labs, academic settings
Industry UsageFundamental research, technology developmentTheoretical modeling, experimental analysis

Quantum Physics is a broad field encompassing the study of quantum phenomena, while Quantum Mechanics is a specific theoretical framework within Quantum Physics that describes the behavior of particles at the quantum level. Both roles often require similar credentials and work environments, but Quantum Physics covers a wider scope including experimental and applied research, whereas Quantum Mechanics focuses on the mathematical modeling of quantum systems.

Are there any jobs in quantum physics?

Yes, careers in quantum physics include roles such as research scientists, quantum engineers, and data analysts, often requiring advanced degrees in physics or related fields. These jobs are typically found in academia, government labs, and technology companies working on quantum computing, cryptography, and advanced materials.

What is the job of a quantum physicist?

A quantum physicist researches and develops theories about the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, using advanced mathematical models and experimental tools to explore quantum phenomena and contribute to fields like quantum computing, cryptography, and nanotechnology.

What jobs can you get with quantum physics?

Quantum physics graduates and professionals can pursue roles such as quantum research scientist, quantum engineer, or quantum software developer. These jobs often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of quantum mechanics, and experience with programming languages like Python or C++, as well as access to specialized laboratory or computational environments.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Quantum Physics job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,415 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Senior Quantum Algorithm Developer

Tyto Athene, LLC

Reston, VA • On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Tyto Athene rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

127th of 224 rated it services


Job description

Description
Quantum Sky is searching for a Senior Quantum Algorithm Developer to develop quantum computing workloads for mission-critical operations supporting the U.S. Federal Government, Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), and National Security sectors. This role is ideal for a technically strong quantum computing professional who is passionate about translating advanced quantum algorithms into practical solutions for real-world mission challenges.
The successful candidate will contribute to the design, development, and evaluation of quantum algorithms that support the industry's transition from Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) systems to Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing (FTQC). Working alongside engineers, scientists, and mission stakeholders, this individual will help bridge the gap between theoretical quantum computing concepts and deployable applications for defense and intelligence missions.
Key Responsibilities: Adapt existing quantum algorithm development techniques to mission-specific use cases; lead technical workstreams; design, implement, and optimize quantum algorithms for NISQ and FTQC architectures; mentor junior developers; contribute to technical publications, patent filings, and proposal efforts; and help curate and evolve the quantum algorithm curriculum for Quantum Sky's Quantum Community of Practice, supporting internal knowledge sharing and technical development.
Quantum Algorithm Development
  • Design, develop, and optimize quantum and hybrid classical-quantum algorithms for mission-relevant applications.
  • Implement quantum algorithms using leading quantum software development frameworks and hardware platforms.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate quantum solutions into broader software and mission architectures.
  • Develop and evaluate Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithms (QAOA), Variational Quantum Eigensolvers (VQE), Quantum Machine Learning (QML), Quantum Fourier Transform (QFT), Grover's Search, and other quantum algorithms as appropriate for mission requirements.
  • Contribute to the development of fault-tolerant algorithms that support hybrid classical-quantum workflows.

Research & Technical Innovation
  • Research emerging quantum algorithms, architectures, and development frameworks.
  • Evaluate new quantum hardware and software capabilities to determine applicability to customer use cases.
  • Model qubit performance and contribute to error mitigation and quantum error correction efforts.
  • Prototype and benchmark quantum solutions across multiple quantum computing platforms.

Collaboration
  • Work closely with software engineers, mathematicians, physicists, and government stakeholders to translate mission requirements into quantum solutions.
  • Participate in technical reviews, proof-of-concept demonstrations, and customer engagements.
  • Document designs, research findings, and implementation approaches.
  • Contribute to internal innovation initiatives, technical papers, and proposal efforts.

Qualifications
Required:
  • PhD or Master's degree in Quantum Physics, Quantum Information Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related technical field.
  • 5-8+ years of experience developing quantum algorithms or quantum software.
  • Experience developing quantum or hybrid classical-quantum algorithms targeting practical use cases.
  • Proficiency with one or more quantum development frameworks such as:
    • Qiskit
    • PennyLane
    • Cirq
    • CUDA-Q
    • Amazon Braket
  • Experience programming in Python.
  • Understanding of quantum computing fundamentals, including:
    • Quantum circuits
    • Quantum gates
    • Quantum optimization
    • Quantum emulation
    • Variational algorithms
  • Familiarity with NISQ-era devices and techniques for error mitigation or quantum error correction.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a security clearance due to federal-facing programs.

Desired:
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.
  • Experience supporting DoD, Intelligence Community, DOE, AFRL, DARPA, or other federal research organizations.
  • Experience with quantum optimization (QUBOs), QAOA, VQE, or quantum machine learning.
  • Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC), GPU computing, or hybrid computing architectures.
  • Publications, patents, or open-source contributions related to quantum computing.
  • Experience working in Agile software development environments.

About Tyto Athene
Compensation:
  • Compensation is unique to each candidate and relative to the skills and experience they bring to the position. The salary range for this position is typically between $190,000 and $230,000. This does not guarantee a specific salary as compensation is based upon multiple factors such as education, experience, certifications, and other requirements, and may fall outside of the above-stated range.

Benefits:
  • Highlights of our benefits include Health/Dental/Vision, 401(k) match, Paid Time Off, STD/LTD/Life Insurance, Referral Bonuses, professional development reimbursement, and parental leave.

The world the mission operates in is going post-quantum, contested, and machine-speed. Quantum Sky engineers the advantage across cyber, networks, software, and quantum because the mission demands dominance, not parity. We don't follow the map. We draw it.
At Quantum Sky, we believe that success starts with our people. We foster a collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven environment where every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of technology. Are you ready to join #TeamQuantumSky?
Quantum Sky Engineering LLC 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, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by applicable law.

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