Part of the Future Tech Jobs (opens in a new tab) network
Sign in

Quantum Hardware Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design, build, and optimise the physical components of quantum computers. A highly specialised and rapidly evolving field at the intersection of physics and engineering.

Open roles
0
Browse latest jobs → Get an alert

Quantum Hardware Engineers are at the forefront of developing the next generation of computing technology. They work on the design, fabrication, and testing of quantum devices, including qubits, quantum processors, and control systems. These roles are typically found in research-heavy startups, academic institutions, and the larger consultancies that are pushing the boundaries of quantum technology. The work is highly interdisciplinary, requiring a deep understanding of both quantum mechanics and advanced materials science.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Quantum Hardware Engineer

A typical week is split between theoretical design, experimental work, and collaboration with software and algorithm teams.

  1. 01
    Design and simulate quantum circuits and devices.
  2. 02
    Conduct experiments to test and characterise quantum hardware.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with software teams to integrate hardware with quantum algorithms.
  4. 04
    Analyse data and refine designs based on experimental results.
  5. 05
    Document findings and prepare reports for stakeholders.
  6. 06
    Attend interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss project progress.
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for quantum hardware engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Quantum Hardware Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of quantum devices under supervision, contributing to small-scale projects.

  2. Level 2

    Quantum Hardware Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Lead the design and implementation of quantum hardware components, manage small teams, and contribute to larger projects.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Quantum Hardware Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Oversee the development of complex quantum systems, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in hardware design.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Quantum Hardware Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Strategise and lead major quantum hardware initiatives, collaborate with industry leaders, and influence the direction of the field.

Pathway

How to become a Quantum Hardware Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Gain a strong foundation in quantum mechanics and materials science through a relevant degree programme.

  2. 2

    Research Experience

    Participate in research projects or internships to gain hands-on experience with quantum hardware.

  3. 3

    Specialised Training

    Pursue advanced courses or certifications in quantum technology and engineering.

  4. 4

    Entry-Level Role

    Start as a Junior Quantum Hardware Engineer, working on small-scale projects and learning from experienced colleagues.

  5. 5

    Mid-Level Role

    Advance to a Quantum Hardware Engineer position, leading the design and implementation of quantum devices.

  6. 6

    Senior Role

    Progress to a Senior Quantum Hardware Engineer, overseeing complex projects and mentoring junior team members.

No Quantum Hardware Engineer Jobs jobs right now

We don't have any matching roles at the moment, but new jobs are added daily.

Latest jobs

IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) Test Manager

Save job
  • Oxford
  • Senior · manages people

Build and lead a team owning the hardware test estate for quantum-computer control software, from CI systems to new QA and staging rigs. Define test-system architecture, plan builds with Manufacturing, and shape testing strategy across simulation and hardware-in-the-loop. Act as test architect, driving automation and self-service rig usage.

GitHub Actions

Clearance required Last week
IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Principal Software Architect

Save job
  • Oxford
  • Lead

Leads the evolution of the system software architecture for a quantum computer, spanning real-time hardware control, low-level orchestration and developer-facing interfaces across a family of products. Coaches technical leads in architectural principles and coordinates with infrastructure, firmware and compiler teams in the UK and US, working at system level rather than designing through code.

Rust · AWS

Clearance required Last week
IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Electronics Engineering Manager

Save job
  • Oxford
  • Senior · manages people

Lead a team of three electronics engineers within the Systems team, acting as a player-coach with roughly 60% leadership and 40% hands-on design. Own the electronics roadmap for quantum systems, covering schematic capture, PCB layout, mixed-signal and high-speed digital design, and the transition from prototypes to rack-ready production hardware.

Altium · Jira · Smartsheet +7

Clearance required Last week
IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Senior Receiving Inspector

Save job
  • Oxford
  • On-site
  • Senior

Inspects incoming, in-process and finished components against mechanical, electrical and PCBA specifications, interpreting GD&T drawings and programming CMM, OMM or vision systems. Owns the inspection side of the Material Review Board, controlling nonconforming material and closing NCRs, while allocating daily work and guiding less experienced inspectors.

CMM · OMM · Vision Systems +2

Last week
IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Staff Supplier Quality Engineer

Save job
  • Oxford
  • Hybrid
  • Senior

Owns supplier quality end to end, from auditing and qualifying new suppliers through incoming inspection, first article inspection and source release decisions. Leads the Supplier Corrective Action Request process, chairs the supplier quality position at review boards, and flows UK export-control and Cyber Essentials requirements down to suppliers. Around 25-50% travel for supplier visits and audits.

Oracle NetSuite · ERP · MRP +5

Clearance required 2 weeks ago
IonQ logo

IonQ · 501–1000 people · Public

Senior Silicon Validation Engineer

Save job
  • Oxford
  • Hybrid
  • Senior

Lead validation and characterisation of analogue and mixed-signal ASICs for trapped-ion quantum processors, from test planning and platform development through first-silicon bring-up, debug and system integration. The role spans room-temperature and cryogenic (around 4 K) measurements on packaged parts, chip-on-board assemblies and bare die, with heavy Python automation and test PCB work.

Python · Git · SPI +7

2 weeks ago
Browse all jobs →
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in physics, materials science, or a related field is typically required, along with relevant research or industry experience.

  • Key skills include a deep understanding of quantum mechanics, proficiency in materials science, and strong problem-solving and experimental skills.

  • Quantum Hardware Engineers often work in laboratory settings, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams in research institutions or tech companies.

  • Gaining experience through hands-on projects, continuous learning, and taking on leadership responsibilities can help you advance in your career.

  • Salaries can vary widely based on experience and location. For specific salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

Hiring quantum hardware engineers?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.

Post a job → See pricing

🍪 A basic record of what gets searched and viewed on Quantum Computing is always kept — it is how we run the boards and report activity to employers. Accepting also loads third-party tools: Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity and HubSpot. We never sell your data or share it with data brokers. See our Cookie Policy.

Are you sure?