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Senior Quantum Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field. * 2+ years work industry experience designing and operating quantum computing hardware. Required Qualifications * Extensive knowledge of ...

You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit ... A solid background in quantum control, with hands-on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or ...

Masters in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Engineering Physics, or similar field, and seven (7) years ... Understands quantum mechanics applications in a laboratory setting. * Ability to transition ...

New

Masters in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Engineering Physics, or similar field, and seven (7) years ... Understands quantum mechanics applications in a laboratory setting. * Ability to transition ...

New

Senior Quantum Scientist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$126K - $181K/yr

You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit ... A solid background in quantum control, with hands-on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or ...

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Senior Quantum Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do senior quantum physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior quantum physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior quantum physicist do?

A Senior Quantum Physicist conducts advanced research on the principles and applications of quantum mechanics. They design and oversee experiments, develop theoretical models, and analyze data to further understanding of quantum phenomena. This role often involves leading research teams, publishing findings, and collaborating with other scientists or engineers on projects such as quantum computing or quantum communication. Senior Quantum Physicists also mentor junior researchers and contribute to the strategic direction of research initiatives.

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

To thrive as a Senior Quantum Physicist, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in physics or a related field, with deep expertise in quantum mechanics, mathematics, and experimental or theoretical research. Mastery of specialized tools such as quantum simulation software, programming languages (like Python or MATLAB), and experience with laboratory equipment or quantum computing platforms is typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for leading research projects and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities enable the development of innovative solutions, drive scientific progress, and ensure successful outcomes in complex quantum research initiatives.

What are some common challenges faced by senior quantum physicists when transitioning from academic research to industry roles?

Senior Quantum Physicists moving into industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, aligning research objectives with commercial goals, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams that may include engineers and software developers. While academic research often allows for deep, exploratory investigation, industry roles typically emphasize deliverables and practical applications. Building strong communication skills and learning to prioritize projects based on business needs can help ease the transition and lead to greater success in industry settings.
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Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Physicist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 52% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 50% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 47% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Senior Quantum Sensing Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Science Applications International Corporation
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$108K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


SAIC rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


SAIC is seeking a TS/SCI (with Poly) cleared Quantum Sensing Engineer responsible for providing high quality advisory services and program planning, implementation, and integration for Quantum Sensing and Networking efforts for Space Applications. As part of the team, you will be required to collaborate with others, as well as work individually, on strategies, roadmaps and recommended solutions for the implementation of Quantum Sensing and Networking Modalities. These modalities include atomic clocks, atom interferometers, quantum magnetometers, Rydberg sensors, and single photon detectors, among others.
In this role, the Quantum Sensing Engineer will work with the customer to develop a quantum portfolio and will be a key performer of its implementation. Will work with the Customer to enhance and broaden the current efforts, as well as identifying new modalities of interest. Understanding how to deploy components of a Quantum System into the Space Environment is a key aspect of the task. These enabling component technologies include space-qualified (radiation-hardened and temperature-resistant) electronics, laser optical systems, photonic integrated circuits, vapor cells, space-qualified photodetectors, and cryogenic systems. In addition, the candidate will need to support the Customer's Quantum Networking efforts. The Quantum Sensing Engineer will be expected to support the design, assembly, deployment, and testing of these technologies.
The Quantum Sensing Engineer will also need to be able to:
  • Engage government, industry, and academic institutions to leverage their expertise in these domains. An ability to maintain and develop new networks is essential to this task.
  • Evaluate and report on new quantum technologies which may impact Space Applications.
  • Provide systems engineering activities such as Concept of Operations Formulation, Requirements Definition, Analysis and Engineering, System Architecting, System Analysis and Design, Interface and Data Architectures, Validation and Verification, System Integration, System & Operations Performance Analysis, Lifecycle Cost Analysis & Estimation, Decision Analysis, and Physical Configuration Analysis (PCA).
  • Ensure the logical and systematic conversion of product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.
  • Perform functional analysis, timeline analysis, detail trade studies, requirements allocation and interface definition studies to translate customer requirements into component specifications.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:
  • Masters in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Engineering Physics, or similar field, and seven (7) years or more experience; Ph.D. (same disciplines as listed above for the Masters) and four (4) year or more experience. Active TS/SCI with Poly

Required Skills:
  • Skilled in: Experimental Quantum Physics, Physical Chemistry, or Engineering Physics
  • Understands quantum mechanics applications in a laboratory setting.
  • Ability to transition technology from the laboratory to the field.
  • Strong communicator that can consult on technical discussions and provide technical recommendations across many levels of the program to include senior leadership.
  • Technical leadership and general problem solving related to software design, architecture, and execution in an oversight position.
  • Ability to operate both independently and without direct supervision.

Desired Skills and Certification:
  • Experience in a DoD/IC environment
  • Demonstrated technical writing and briefing.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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