Staff Quantum Algorithm Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Staff Quantum Algorithm Engineer. Location: Chicago, IL, USA

Responsibilities:

• Work with researchers and engineers across the IBM Quantum Network to analyze and optimize quantum computing performance using advanced hardware and software.
• Collaborate with software development and product teams to test new capabilities and expand IBM Quantum tools.
• Provide feedback on early prototypes and identify gaps in existing software solutions.
• Implement production-quality software across IBM Quantum’s software stack;
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments in quantum computing and related fields.
• Deliver technical lectures, workshops, tutorials, and presentations for audiences ranging from beginners to experts.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to define and achieve project goals;
• Drive strategic direction for technical content creation and high-impact research demonstrations.
• Represent user needs internally and support adoption of quantum computing technologies.
• Work independently to prioritize tasks while managing multiple responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Physics, Computer Science, Computational Science, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in quantum computing, including running near-term algorithms on quantum hardware.
• Strong programming skills in Python and Qiskit.
• Deep understanding of quantum computing architecture across software, middleware, and hardware layers.
• Proven experience in analyzing, modeling, and tuning quantum hardware performance, including transpilation and error mitigation techniques.
• Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and project management skills;
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work both independently and collaboratively.

Preferred:

• PhD in a relevant field.
• Understanding of quantum system benchmarking techniques and trade-offs across hardware architectures.
• Strong foundation in quantum algorithms for near-term applications.
• Experience working with real quantum processors and system-level performance modeling.
• High-performance computing experience and knowledge of quantum-classical integration.
• Software development experience including documentation, testing, CI/CD, and agile practices.
• Programming experience in C, C++, or Rust;
• Experience collaborating across product, research, and sales teams.
• Experience in customer-facing roles or external research collaborations.
• Experience leading strategic programs such as educational content or research initiatives.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Salary range: $131,000 – $226,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support.
• Financial benefits including 401(k), pension plans, stock purchase options, and life insurance.
• Paid time off including holidays, sick leave, vacation, and parental leave;
• Access to training and certifications through IBM’s AI-driven learning platform.
• Employee resource groups, volunteering opportunities, and retail discounts.