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Quantum Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world's most challenging problems ... Works with electrical, mechanical, software, firmware, vacuum, laser, and controls engineering ...

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world's most challenging problems ... Works with electrical, mechanical, software, firmware, vacuum, laser, and controls engineering ...

... engineering tradeoffs. * Own critical systems through validation, troubleshooting, performance ... Experience integrating optical, electronic, vacuum, control, and software subsystems into complex ...

... engineering tradeoffs. * Own critical systems through validation, troubleshooting, performance ... Experience integrating optical, electronic, vacuum, control, and software subsystems into complex ...

Senior Cryogenic Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170 - $190/hr

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most ... Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies ...

New

Senior Cryogenic Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most ... Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies ...

Senior Cryogenic Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most ... Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Company Overview Photon Queue builds the world's leading quantum memory devices - systems that ... High proficiency in optical design and analysis software (FRED, LightTools, Zemax or similar) and ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Company Overview Photon Queue builds the world's leading quantum memory devices - systems that ... High proficiency in optical design and analysis software (FRED, LightTools, Zemax or similar) and ...

... engineering leadership, quantum atomic systems, quantum optical communication systems, and flight quantum system operations. Tasks will include but are not limited to: * Maintain and develop software ...

Showing results 21-40

Quantum Software Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$61.5K

$143K

$199.1K

How much do quantum software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum software engineer in Illinois is $142,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,300.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Quantum Software Engineer, you need a deep understanding of quantum computing principles, proficiency in classical programming languages (such as Python or C++), and experience with quantum SDKs (like Qiskit or Cirq), often supported by a degree in computer science, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with simulators, cloud-based quantum platforms, and sometimes certifications in quantum programming are also highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and adaptability help set excellent candidates apart. These skills and qualities are vital for building practical quantum applications and advancing technology in a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field.

What does a quantum software engineer do?

Quantum Software Engineers usually spend their days designing, coding, and testing quantum algorithms, often using specialized quantum software libraries and simulators. They collaborate closely with quantum physicists, classical software engineers, and researchers to translate theoretical concepts into efficient, practical solutions. Regular tasks also include debugging code, optimizing performance on quantum and hybrid systems, and staying updated with the latest advances in quantum hardware and software. Effective teamwork and ongoing learning are central to success in this dynamic, research-driven environment.

What is a quantum software engineer?

A Quantum Software Engineer develops algorithms, software, and applications for quantum computers. They work with quantum programming languages like Qiskit, Cirq, or PennyLane to implement quantum algorithms that solve complex problems more efficiently than classical computers. Their role involves understanding quantum mechanics, optimizing quantum circuits, and collaborating with researchers to bridge the gap between theory and practical implementation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Software Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Quantum Software Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Quantum Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Quantum Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Quantum Software Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,954 per year, or $68.7 per hour.

Quantum Network Manager

The University Of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130 - $155/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

**Department**PME Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE)**About the Department**The Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE) is an intellectual hub for advancing the science and engineering of quantum information between the CQE community, across the Midwest, and around the globe. A catalyst for research activity across its member and partner institutions, the CQE is based at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering and is anchored by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Northwestern University, and Purdue University. The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME) was established in May 2019 and evolved from the Institute for Molecular Engineering, which was founded in 2011. The PME integrates science and engineering to address global challenges from the molecular level up. The PME’s rigorous academic and research programs are made possible through the University of Chicago’s unique partnership with Argonne National Laboratory. The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is the first new school at the University of Chicago in three decades and the first school in the nation dedicated to molecular engineering. In the next phase of growth as a School, the PME will continue to expand its team of world-class faculty researchers and empower students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge facilities. The PME aims to bring solutions for urgent societal problems to the forefront, while training the next generation of scientific leaders and entrepreneurs.**Job Summary**The Quantum Network Manager is responsible for launching and supporting the programming and maintenance of the Midwest Quantum Network Facility. This role will include overseeing hardware and software experiments and deployments, and vendors related to quantum networking, as well as working with other technical staff at partnering organizations. The position requires experience and expertise in telecommunications, programming, project management, field deployments, and customer relations. The Quantum Network Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with University, government, and industry security and regulatory protocols. This position reports to the Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Quantum Exchange and collaborates closely with the PME Executive Director of Information Technology.**Responsibilities*** Oversees the launch and maintenance of the Midwest Quantum Network Facility, focusing on reducing optical losses, optimizing network control and applications, integrating control devices, and facilitating the incorporation of new quantum components and protocols through collaboration with academic, government, and industry experts.* Leads the expansion of the quantum network infrastructure to deploy and integrate additional quantum nodes into the network.* Represents the Midwest Quantum Network Facility in technical engagements with external stakeholders, including industry partners, federal agencies, and research collaborators.* Interfaces with central IT and Facilities stakeholders to ensure the quantum network infrastructure meets University and Midwest Quantum Network Facility strategic goals.* Collaborates with CQE to distill complex technical milestones into actionable narratives for executive leadership and board-level stakeholders.* Collaborates with technical staff at partnering organizations to develop secure quantum networking technologies, including U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Northwestern University, and Purdue University.* Deploys quantum networking and related technologies, such as low-loss, fiber-based quantum repeaters, quantum-classical hybrid systems, and optimize fiber infrastructure for secure data transmission.* Implements fiber-optic links for quantum entanglement distribution and quantum communication networks. Deploys hardware to interface qubits with optical fibers, such as high-efficiency single-photon sources and detectors.* Reports on site readiness, risk analysis, and strategic planning to senior leadership.* Broadens the scope of the Midwest Quantum Network Facility by investigating long-range connections to other regional and national quantum networks.* Provides support to maintain the operation and service levels of quantum networking systems.* Clearly communicates and presents technical information to both technical team members and employees who may not be familiar with quantum networking terminology.* Solves complex problems relating to the consulting services of vendors, including the development of project statements of work and determining vendor resource requirements.* Leads the development, design, and implementation of a Networking Services and Information Technologies (NSIT) network. Creates project plans for network design, implementation, and upgrades/modifications to existing networks.* Manages the installation of network hardware, communications wiring, wireless telecommunication facilities, communications software, and other network components. Identifies problems with network components and services. Conducts trending and analysis of network traffic patterns and makes recommendations.* Performs other related work as needed.**Minimum Qualifications****Education:**Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.**Work Experience:**Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.**Certifications:****---****Preferred Qualifications****Education:*** A bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering, quantum engineering, physics, computer science, or related technical field.**Experience:*** 7 + years of progressive experience with classical or quantum networks, including network timing, optical switching, and synchronization.**Certifications:*** Industry certifications related to specific technical areas.**Tec****hnical Skills or Knowledge:*** Deep understanding of optical fiber propagation, photonics, and dealing with fiber losses.* Familiarity with quantum mechanics, entanglement, quantum memories, and/or QKD protocols.* Proficient in computer programming (Python, Visual Studio C/C++, etc.).* Proficient skills in security implementation around various compliance regulations and risk management.* Proficient skills in routing, switching, firewalls, and protocols skills.* Complex quantum network issues resolution skills.* Proficient quantum networking, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.**Preferred Competencies*** Excellent interpersonal, written, verbal, presentation, and time management skills.* Detail-oriented with a critical degree of accuracy used to manage complex systems.* A self-starter, able to work assigned tasks with minimal direction, and think independently.* Critically assess the results of tasks and directed checks to ensure successful outcomes.**Application Documents*** Resume/CV (required)* Cover Letter (required)* Professional References Contact Information (3) (preferred)When applying, the document(s) **MUST** be uploaded via the **My Experience** page, in the section titled **Application Documents** of the application.**Job Family**Information Technology**Role Impact**Individual Contributor**Scheduled** **Weekly Hours**37.5**Drug Test Required**No**Health Screen Required**No**Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required**No**Pay Rate Type**Salary **FLSA Status**Exempt **Pay Range**$130,000.00 - $155,000.00The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.**Benefits #J-18808-Ljbffr

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