Principal Quantum Architect

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Quantum Architect. Location: Santa Barbara, CA, USA or Redmond, WA, USA

Job Type: Full-Time (Hybrid, 3 days/week in-office)

Responsibilities:

• Define the architecture for Microsoft's next-generation topological quantum computing system, focusing on scalable readout and control technologies.
• Analyze qubit tuning and quantum circuit execution workflows in measurement-based topological quantum systems.
• Translate system-level requirements into subsystem and component specifications.
• Define and drive requirements for readout, control, and orchestration software layers.
• Perform scaling analysis, behavioral modeling, and rapid prototyping to evaluate system performance;
• Communicate architectural concepts, design tradeoffs, and technical recommendations to multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Leverage modern AI tools to accelerate architectural validation, rapid prototyping, engineering productivity, and performance analysis.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to develop scalable quantum computing platforms.
• Support Microsoft's engineering culture by demonstrating collaboration, accountability, innovation, and inclusion.

Qualifications:

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with at least 3 years of industry or research experience; or
• Master's degree with at least 6 years of relevant industry or research experience; or
• Bachelor's degree with at least 8 years of relevant industry or research experience; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Ability to use AI tools to improve engineering productivity, workflow automation, research synthesis, and performance analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in an AI-first engineering environment.
• Ability to meet Microsoft security screening requirements, including Microsoft Cloud Background Check.
• Must satisfy export control eligibility requirements, including citizenship or permanent residency verification where required.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with quantum algorithms and Quantum Error Correction in practical quantum computing systems.
• Understanding of end-to-end quantum computing system architecture, from system-level requirements to subsystem implementation.
• Strong scientific programming experience and software development for research environments.
• Experience developing maintainable software supporting scientific experimentation.
• Experience with high-performance, parallel, or distributed computing environments.
• Experience using modern AI tools for rapid prototyping and engineering workflows.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary:
  • U.S.: $142,800 to $274,800 annually.
  • San Francisco Bay Area and New York City: $188,000 to $304,200 annually.
• Eligible for additional compensation and Microsoft employee benefits.
• Hybrid work schedule with three in-office days per week;
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge topological quantum computing technologies.
• Work alongside experts in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing.

Other Information:

• Travel requirement: Less than 25%.
• Role Type: Individual Contributor.
• Profession: Quantum Computing.
• Discipline: Quantum Engineering.
• Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.
• Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility;
• Employment is subject to background screening and applicable export control regulations.
• The role involves building scalable quantum technologies that integrate advanced hardware, software, AI, and Azure cloud services.