Principal Quantum Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Quantum Engineer. Location: Santa Barbara, CA, USA

Responsibilities:

• Design next-generation quantum processing units (QPUs) for scalable quantum computing systems.
• Lead development of multi-qubit architectures based on topological qubits.
• Collaborate closely with fabrication, systems, packaging, and control teams to co-design QPUs while considering scalability, process limitations, and system-level constraints;
• Serve as a technical authority and interface for collaborations with fabrication, packaging, and design partners.
• Improve engineering workflows, execution efficiency, and design methodologies using integrated circuit design principles and engineering best practices.
• Co-develop process assumptions, design rules, process design kit (PDK) extensions, and qualification strategies with fabrication partners and foundries.
• Apply AI tools to accelerate engineering and laboratory workflows, including performance modeling, automation, research gathering, and data analysis;
• Design and build AI copilots or agents to assist with experiment setup, log analysis, measurement report generation, protocol templating, and technical knowledge retrieval.
• Contribute to Microsoft’s culture and values while supporting innovation in scalable quantum computing systems.

Qualifications:

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field with 3+ years of industry or research experience,
  OR Master’s Degree with 6+ years of experience,
  OR Bachelor’s Degree with 8+ years of experience,
  OR equivalent practical experience;
• Ability to pass Microsoft Cloud Background Check and required security screenings.
• Ability to work with export-controlled information in compliance with applicable regulations.
• Experience leveraging AI tools for engineering productivity and workflow optimization;
• Strong technical leadership and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary hardware teams.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with chip and circuit design/layout tools.
• Experience leading complex multidisciplinary hardware programs.
• Experience with semiconductor device fabrication processes, process design kits (PDKs), and electronic design automation tools.
• Hands-on experience working with semiconductor foundries or manufacturing partners;
• Experience with IC or ASIC design flows, including RTL-to-GDS, physical design, and verification.
• Knowledge of quantum computing hardware platforms, including superconducting, topological, or spin-based qubits.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range across the U.S.: $139,900–$274,800 per year.
• Base salary range in San Francisco Bay Area and New York City: $188,000–$304,200 per year.
• Eligible roles may include additional benefits and compensation programs;
• Hybrid work arrangement with 3 days per week in-office.
• Travel requirement less than 25%.

Other Information:

• Employment type: Individual Contributor (IC5).
• Discipline: Quantum Engineering.
• Microsoft is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment.
• Applicants may request accommodations during the hiring process if needed;
• Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until the role is filled.
• This role involves access to export-controlled information and requires citizenship or residency verification in compliance with applicable laws.