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Senior Quantum Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Microsoft

Senior Quantum Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

The Senior Quantum Software Engineer will play a crucial role in developing tools that enhance quantum research and development, working on integrations and features that facilitate productive ...

Microsoft

Senior Quantum Software Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

As a Senior Quantum Software Engineer in the Developer Tools team you will help build the tools to advance quantum research & development. This full stack of tools includes quantum-specific languages ...

Microsoft

Senior Quantum Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

As a Senior Quantum Engineer you will design and test the readout system for topological qubits at the component, subsystem and system levels. This opportunity will allow you to grow as a systems ...

Atom Computing

Senior Quantum Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$185K - $210K/yr

As a Quantum Engineer at Atom Computing, you will join a team of talented scientists and engineers who are working to translate fundamental atomic physics to a scalable, fault-tolerant quantum ...

Atom Computing

Senior Quantum Engineer

Boulder, CO

$185K - $210K/yr

As a Quantum Engineer at Atom Computing, you will join a team of talented scientists and engineers who are working to translate fundamental atomic physics to a scalable, fault-tolerant quantum ...

Atom Computing

Senior Quantum Engineer

Boulder, CO

$185K - $210K/yr

As a Quantum Engineer at Atom Computing, you will join a team of talented scientists and engineers who are working to translate fundamental atomic physics to a scalable, fault-tolerant quantum ...

IonQ

Senior Quantum Field Engineer - Bioscience

As a Senior Quantum Field Engineer, you'll be part of a team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum solutions for the Bioscience vertical and solve the world ...

Leidos

Sr. Quantum Information Scientist

Lawton, OK · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO ... The Senior Scientist will assist in quantum information science (QIS)-based research being ...

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Senior Quantum Programmer information

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How much do senior quantum programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior quantum programmer in the United States is $52.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.99 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Senior Quantum Programmer?

A Senior Quantum Programmer is an advanced professional specializing in designing, developing, and optimizing algorithms for quantum computers. They work with quantum programming languages, such as Qiskit or Cirq, to solve complex computational problems that are difficult or impossible for classical computers. Their responsibilities often include leading quantum software projects, collaborating with physicists and engineers, and mentoring junior team members. Senior Quantum Programmers typically have a strong background in quantum mechanics, computer science, and mathematics. They play a key role in advancing the practical applications of quantum computing in various industries.

What is the difference between Senior Quantum Programmer vs Quantum Software Engineer?

AspectSenior Quantum ProgrammerQuantum Software Engineer
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in Physics, Computer Science, or related fields; experience with quantum algorithmsSimilar credentials; focus on software development and programming skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, academiaTech firms, startups, research institutions
Industry UsageQuantum computing research and developmentDevelopment of quantum applications and software tools

Both roles require strong backgrounds in quantum computing and programming. The Senior Quantum Programmer often leads complex projects and research initiatives, while the Quantum Software Engineer focuses on developing and implementing quantum algorithms and software solutions. The roles are closely related, with overlapping skills and work environments, but differ mainly in seniority and scope of responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Quantum Programmers when translating classical algorithms to quantum circuits?

Senior Quantum Programmers often encounter challenges in efficiently mapping classical algorithms onto quantum circuits due to limitations in quantum hardware, such as qubit coherence times and gate fidelity. Additionally, they must optimize algorithms to reduce the number of required qubits and operations, as current quantum computers are still relatively small and error-prone. Collaboration with physicists and hardware engineers is essential to address these challenges and to ensure that practical constraints are considered during development. Staying updated with rapidly evolving quantum frameworks and best practices is also key to success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Quantum Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Quantum Programmer, you need advanced knowledge of quantum computing concepts, quantum algorithms, and strong programming skills in languages such as Python and Qiskit, often supported by a degree in physics, computer science, or related fields. Familiarity with quantum computing frameworks (e.g., IBM Qiskit, Google Cirq), cloud-based quantum platforms, and sometimes certifications in quantum programming are highly valued. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and adaptability to rapidly evolving technologies help set top candidates apart. These skills are vital for developing efficient quantum solutions, driving innovation, and contributing to the progress of this cutting-edge field.
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Senior Quantum Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,736 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Senior Quantum Software Engineer, Compiler

D-Wave Quantum

New Haven, CT • On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS), D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world's first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our quantum computers - the world's largest - feature QPUs with sub-second response times and can be deployed on-premises or accessed through our quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our quantum systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we're shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.
You can read more about our company and our innovations in the pages of The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Fast Company, MIT Technology Review, Forbes, Inc. Magazine, Wired and across many whitepapers.
At D-Wave, we're helping customers realize the value of quantum computing today and are shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow.
About the role
D-Wave is seeking a talented Senior Quantum Software Engineer, Compiler to join our dynamic team and work on developing key pieces of our software platform and tools focusing primarily on our compiler and interface to various quantum programming environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in developing tools and transpilation layers converting general quantum circuits into gate and lower-level quantum control sequences. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including application engineers, quantum physicists, and embedded software engineers to design, develop, and deploy innovative solutions.
What you'll do
  • Collaborate with product managers, scientists, and other engineers to translate functional requirements into technical specifications and robust solutions
  • Work directly with quantum application engineers and quantum physicists to understand how to convert quantum circuits into implementations targeting our industry-leading dual-rail qubit architecture
  • Architect and build efficient, reliable, scalable, and maintainable compiler software and tools
  • Write clean, well-documented code and conduct thorough code reviews to ensure code quality and maintainability
  • Troubleshoot and debug issues, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to optimize performance and improve the user experience
  • Provide software mentorship and guidance on best practices and help drive adherence to software best practices

About You
  • Master's degree in computer science, electrical/computer engineering, math, physics, chemistry, or equivalent experience with strong physics aptitude
  • 5+ years of hands-on software development experience with C, C++, Python, or another general-purpose compiled programming language
  • Strong understanding of compiler design fundamentals
  • 2+ years developing compiler software/transpiling quantum models and using quantum API's (Qiskit, CUDA-Q, Q#, or Cirq) to convert quantum circuits into quantum logic and basis gates
  • Experience with intermediate representations such as QIR and compiler toolchain technologies including LLVM, MLIR, lexers, and parsers
  • Experience programming with one or more high level quantum programming languages and/or models such as Qiskit, CUDA-Q, Q#, or Cirq
  • Proficient with database systems and SQL with hands-on experience working with relational databases (e.g. PostgreSQL, Oracle)
  • Competence with Git version control, build tools, and CI/CD pipelines
  • Use of software testing principles and practices, including unit testing, integration testing, and end-to-end testing
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a collaborative team environment
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts

A D-Waver's DNA
  • We look at the future and say "why not"; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
  • We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
  • We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
  • As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:
We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they've got - not because they're simply making money, but because they've fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.
During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.
Inclusion:
We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.
The Fine Print:
No 3rd party candidates will be accepted
It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.
The base pay range for this role is:
125,000 - 187,000 USD (New Haven)

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