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Senior Quantum Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$57K

$112.3K

$149.5K

How much do senior quantum research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior quantum research scientist in the United States is $112,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior quantum research scientist?

Senior Quantum Research Scientists are experts who lead advanced research projects in quantum science and technology. They work on developing new quantum algorithms, quantum hardware, or applications in areas like computing, cryptography, and material science. These scientists often design and conduct experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and mentor junior researchers. Their work is crucial for pushing the boundaries of what is possible with quantum systems and often involves collaboration between academia, industry, and government labs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a senior quantum research scientist?

To thrive as a Senior Quantum Research Scientist, you need an advanced degree (Ph.D.) in physics, quantum computing, or a related field, along with deep expertise in quantum mechanics and mathematical modeling. Proficiency with quantum programming languages (like Qiskit or Cirq), simulation software, and familiarity with quantum hardware platforms are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are essential for advancing complex research projects, driving innovation, and translating theoretical concepts into practical quantum technologies.

What are typical challenges faced by senior quantum research scientists when leading multidisciplinary research projects?

Senior Quantum Research Scientists often encounter challenges in bridging knowledge gaps between team members from diverse backgrounds, such as physics, computer science, and engineering. Balancing theoretical research with practical application development, while coordinating priorities and timelines, can require strong project management and communication skills. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving quantum technologies and ensuring that the team’s work aligns with broader organizational goals are ongoing aspects of the role. Successfully navigating these challenges is key to advancing impactful quantum research.

What is the difference between Senior Quantum Research Scientist vs Quantum Software Engineer?

AspectSenior Quantum Research ScientistQuantum Software Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Physics, Quantum Computing, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Physics, or related field; coding skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, corporate R&DSoftware development teams, tech companies, startups
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, tech companiesTech firms, startups, industry-focused R&D
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, academic vs industry workSoftware development, coding skills, industry applications

While both roles involve quantum technologies, the Senior Quantum Research Scientist focuses on theoretical research and experimental development in labs, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, a Quantum Software Engineer primarily develops algorithms and software applications for quantum computers, emphasizing coding skills and software development experience.

More about Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Quantum Research Scientist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

The most popular types of Quantum Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Quantum Research Scientist jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Senior Quantum Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,254 per year, or $54 per hour.

Quantum Researcher Scientist

Pivot Path Solutions

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Based in the Washington, D.C. Metro area, Pivot Path Solutions, LLC is a government contracting and business solutions firm that offers enterprise IT solutions, strategic and acquisition planning, organizational development, and medical research and analytics services to help customers adapt and thrive in changing market conditions. We are seeking a Quantum Research Scientist to support an anticipated National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) quantum research program. This is an onsite position in Gaithersburg, MD. 
 

Position Summary

The Quantum Research Scientist will conduct theoretical, experimental, or computational research supporting quantum information science and advanced measurement technologies. The successful candidate will bring demonstrated expertise in one or more areas, including quantum computing, quantum sensing and metrology, quantum communications and networking, quantum optics, superconducting or atomic quantum systems, quantum algorithms, or quantum error correction.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and conduct theoretical, computational, or laboratory-based quantum research.
  • Develop and evaluate quantum devices, algorithms, experimental systems, measurement methods, or network protocols.
  • Characterize quantum-system performance, including noise, fidelity, coherence, uncertainty, scalability, and reliability.
  • Develop scientific software for modeling, simulation, instrument control, data acquisition, processing, and visualization.
  • Support quantum-system benchmarking, verification, calibration, and measurement standards.
  • Analyze experimental and simulation results using statistically sound and reproducible methods.
  • Prepare technical reports, research papers, procedures, presentations, and supporting documentation.
  • Present research findings during technical reviews, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
  • Collaborate with physicists, engineers, computer scientists, mathematicians, government researchers, universities, and industry partners.
  • Maintain accurate research records and comply with laboratory safety, information-security, and data-integrity requirements.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be a US citizen. 
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Quantum Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Materials Science, or a closely related field. A master’s degree with at least five years of directly relevant research experience may be considered.
  • Demonstrated research experience in at least one quantum information science area.
  • Experience designing experiments, developing theoretical or computational models, or evaluating complex scientific systems.
  • Proficiency with Python or a comparable scientific programming language.
  • Experience with scientific data analysis, visualization, and reproducible research practices.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, technical writing, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Ability to satisfy applicable federal facility-access, information-security, and export-control requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with superconducting circuits or qubits, trapped ions, neutral atoms, quantum photonics, single-photon systems, quantum sensors, or comparable quantum platforms.
  • Knowledge of quantum tomography, benchmarking, error correction, fault tolerance, quantum algorithms, or many-body simulation.
  • Experience with quantum-network architecture, entanglement distribution, routing protocols, control-plane development, or network simulation.
  • Experience with cryogenic systems, microwave or RF measurements, lasers, optical systems, FPGA/RFSoC platforms, or microfabrication.
  • Familiarity with Git, Linux, laboratory automation, and scientific software-development practices.
  • Knowledge of precision measurement, calibration, measurement uncertainty, SI traceability, or technical standards development.
  • Record of peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, patents, or successful research prototypes.
  • Previous experience supporting NIST, another federal laboratory, a university research center, or a commercial quantum-technology program.
What We Offer:
Pivot Path Solutions strives to attract, motivate, and retain the best people in the industry. Our benefits package reflects our continued commitment to our employees by prioritizing the health and well-being of each member. The Company offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Generous Contribution on Health, Dental and Vision Insurances
  • 100% Employer Paid Group Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Safe Harbor 401(K) Plan
  • Health Saving Account (HSA)
  • Healthcare Flexible Saving Account (FSA) and Dependent Care FSA
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Employee Referral Program
U.S. Citizenship is required, and all selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation. This includes meeting the eligibility requirements for access to classified information and the ability to obtain government-granted security clearance. Individuals may also be subject to background investigation including criminal history, employment verification, education verification, drug testing, and creditworthiness.

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