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Senior Quantum Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Quantum Software Engineer

Redmond, WA ยท On-site

$137.20K - $180.90K/yr

As a Senior Quantum Software Engineer in the Developer Tools team you will help build the tools to ... You will have an opportunity to grow your skills in quantum computing & algorithms, programming ...

Senior Quantum Software Engineer

New Haven, CT ยท On-site

$123.20K - $162.40K/yr

About the role D-Wave is seeking a Senior Quantum Software Engineer to work on our core software, calibration systems, and tooling for our quantum computers within the Systems Software Engineering ...

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 ...

Senior Quantum Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$143.90K - $189.70K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer with strong expertise in C++, Python to design, develop ... programming models. * Solid Background in numerical linear algebra (SVD, QR, low-rank ...

OR

$122.40K - $161.30K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer with strong expertise in C++, Python to design, develop ... programming models. * Solid Background in numerical linear algebra (SVD, QR, low-rank ...

Senior Quantum Simulation Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$116.30K - $159.70K/yr

For more information about the Microsoft Quantum team, please visit As a Senior Quantum Simulation Engineer, you will develop and refine advanced simulation methods to model qubit dynamics and error ...

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Senior Quantum Programming information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior quantum programming jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior quantum programming in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 deep expertise in quantum computing principles, proficiency in programming languages like Python and Qiskit, and typically a graduate degree in physics, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with quantum development environments, quantum simulators, and cloud-based quantum platforms is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly are essential soft skills. These competencies enable effective development of quantum algorithms, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and advancement of cutting-edge quantum technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Quantum Programmers when working on interdisciplinary teams?

Senior Quantum Programmers often collaborate with physicists, mathematicians, and classical software engineers to develop quantum algorithms and applications. A common challenge is bridging the knowledge gap between quantum computing concepts and traditional programming or business domains. Clear communication and the ability to translate complex quantum principles into actionable project requirements are essential. Embracing continuous learning and fostering a collaborative mindset help in successfully integrating quantum solutions into broader technological stacks.

What is a Senior Quantum Programmer?

A Senior Quantum Programmer is an experienced professional who designs, develops, and optimizes software solutions using quantum computing principles. They work with quantum programming languages like Qiskit, Cirq, or Q# to create algorithms that leverage quantum mechanics for complex problem-solving. These experts often collaborate with researchers, mathematicians, and engineers to advance quantum technology and apply it to fields such as cryptography, optimization, and material science. Typically, a Senior Quantum Programmer has a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and quantum physics.

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

AspectSenior Quantum ProgrammingQuantum Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, Physics, or related; experience in quantum algorithmsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, Physics, or related; experience in quantum programming
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, academiaTech companies, startups, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageQuantum computing firms, research institutionsQuantum tech companies, software development firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Senior Quantum Programming and Quantum Software Engineer roles share similar credentials and work environments, often found in research labs and tech companies. The senior role typically involves leadership and advanced project responsibilities, while the Quantum Software Engineer focuses on developing and implementing quantum algorithms. Both positions are crucial in the quantum computing industry and are often compared by professionals seeking career growth or specialization in quantum technology.

More about Senior Quantum Programming jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Quantum Programming jobs? Cities with the most Senior Quantum Programming job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Programming jobs? The most popular types of Quantum Programming jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Quantum Programming jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Quantum Programming jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Quantum Programming jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Quantum Programming jobs are:
Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Programming job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Senior Quantum Software Engineer, Compiler

D-Wave Quantum

New Haven, CT โ€ข On-site

$123.20K - $162.40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 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:
124,360 - 186,540 USD (New Haven)