ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Quantum Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GlobalFoundries inc.

NY · On-site

$69 - $120/hr

The Sr. Quantum Integration Engineer supports execution of quantum development activities across multiple quantum technology platforms. Working closely with modality DRIs, Quantum AME, Fab 8, and Fab ...

Qtron GmbH

$102.67 - $136.89/hr

Als Senior Quantum Fault-Tolerance Architect (m/w/d) gestaltest du eleQtrons langfristige Roadmap ... Engineering und Quantum Applications zur Unterstützung des Co-Designs zukünftiger ...

New

Socket.dev

NY · On-site

$69 - $120/hr

The Sr. Quantum Integration Engineer supports execution of quantum development activities across multiple quantum technology platforms. Working closely with modality DRIs, Quantum AME, Fab 8, and Fab ...

IonQ

Senior Quantum Scientist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$126K - $181K/yr

IonQ's newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting ... Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis. * A track record of scientific communication ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsScience JobsPhysics JobsPhysicist JobsSenior Quantum Programmer Jobs

Senior Quantum Programmer information

See salary details

$13

$52

$71

How much do senior quantum programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior quantum programmer?

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.

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 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.

More about Senior Quantum Programmer jobs

What cities are hiring for Senior Quantum Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Quantum Programmer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Programmer jobs?

The most popular types of Quantum Programmer jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Quantum Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Senior Quantum Programmer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Senior Quantum Programmer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Quantum Programmer jobs are:

Senior Quantum Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,736 per year, or $52.3 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 10 hours ago

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.

What Tyto Athene employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply