Quantum Research Scientist

Job Description

Job Title: Quantum Research Scientist, AWS Center for Quantum Computing. Location: Pasadena, California, USA

Responsibilities:

• Develop novel fabrication processes for high-coherence superconducting qubits.
• Research and develop advanced 3D integration, interconnect, and routing technologies for superconducting quantum processors.
• Perform micro- and nano-fabrication research inside cleanroom environments.
• Plan and execute experiments independently and in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams;
• Analyze inline metrology, fabrication, and electrical test data to improve process performance.
• Develop and document production standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transferring newly developed fabrication processes into production.
• Collaborate with project leads to improve fabrication and packaging processes through continuous feedback.
• Research and evaluate new fabrication and packaging technologies for next-generation quantum processors.
• Stay current with emerging developments in superconducting quantum processor fabrication and packaging.
• Work closely with scientists, engineers, and technicians across hardware and software disciplines.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related science or engineering discipline, or a Master's degree with at least four years of quantitative research experience.
• Demonstrated experience applying scientific principles to solve engineering or product development challenges.
• Experience analyzing experimental and observational datasets;
• Proven track record of impactful work in micro- and nano-fabrication.
• Hands-on experience with:
  • Electron beam lithography.
  • Photolithography using aligners, steppers, or scanners.
  • Wet and dry wafer etching techniques.
  • Wafer cleaning and lift-off processes.
  • Thin film deposition methods including PECVD, LPCVD, ALD, sputtering, evaporation, and furnace oxidation.
  • Semiconductor and thin-film metrology techniques such as AFM, SEM, XPS, EDX, profilometry, reflectometry, and ellipsometry.
  • Manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Ability to manage multiple projects while working independently and collaboratively.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred:

• Programming experience with Python, MATLAB, R, or similar scripting languages.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies.
• Experience building web-based dashboards.
• Familiarity with superconducting quantum computing components, fabrication, and packaging.
• At least one year of industry experience in a semiconductor cleanroom environment.
• Experience with:
  • Electroplating.
  • Wafer thinning.
  • Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP).
  • Flip-chip and wafer-level packaging.
  • Temporary and permanent wafer bonding.
  • 2.5D and 3D integration technologies.
• Experience performing failure analysis and root cause investigations.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis, design of experiments (DOE), JMP, or Minitab;
• Experience with yield monitoring, statistical process control (SPC), and process capability analysis.
• Excellent written, verbal, and data presentation skills.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Annual base salary: $136,000 to $184,000 USD, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
• Additional compensation may include:
  • Sign-on bonus.
  • Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Prescription drug coverage.
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Mental health support.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
  • Adoption and surrogacy reimbursement.
  • 401(k) with company matching.
  • Paid time off.
  • Parental leave.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement with opportunities for in-office collaboration.

Other Information:

• Join a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers developing next-generation cloud quantum computing technologies at the AWS Center for Quantum Computing.
• Conduct research in both cleanroom and laboratory environments focused on superconducting quantum processor fabrication.
• Work on technologies that support future quantum computing services delivered through AWS.
• AWS encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification;
• The company provides mentorship, career development resources, employee-led affinity groups, and a collaborative work environment.
• Amazon is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process.