Senior Software Engineer

Riverlane
Cambridge
10 months ago
Applications closed

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Senior Software Engineer - UK-023

Senior Software Engineer - Oxford

Senior Software Engineer - Quantum Compiler & Systems Lead

Senior Quantum Backend Engineer - Control Systems

Senior Quantum Networking Software Engineer

Lead Embedded Software & Firmware Engineer - Quantum

Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid

Salary: £55,000 - £78,500 GBP DOE 

We will also consider part-time applications for this role. Please indicate your preferred working schedule in your cover letter.  

About us  

Riverlane’s mission is to make quantum computing useful, sooner. From advances in material science to complex chemistry simulation for drug design and discovery, quantum computers will help solve some of the world’s most important challenges. Riverlane is building the quantum error correction stack, Deltaflow, to make this happen. It’s a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion.  

We recently raised $75M inSeries C fundingto accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), and are partnering with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.  

 

About the role 

We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Software Engineer to join us as we build the world’s first quantum error correction (QEC) stack. Specialising as a Compiler Engineer, you will help us to design and develop the software stack for quantum error correction. Applying your existing knowledge of computer science fundamentals, you will help Riverlane to build compilation and runtime systems for this unique computing system. You don't need a background in quantum computing to be successful in this role – quantum engineering requires a wide range of skills and disciplines, including classical computing skills.  You will learn quantum computing along the way!    

Riverlane’s mission is exciting, but complex.  It requires teams with a wide range of skills and perspectives, that communicate well and collaborate effectively to achieve truly innovative solutions. 

You will thrive in an environment where knowledge-sharing and continuous learning are the norm.  We are moving fast in a brand new market, where requirements can change as the technology evolves, so the ability to adapt is important. 

 

What you will do 

  • Understand design requirements for error-corrected quantum computing systems 
  • Build the software stack that targets the complex, real-time error correction hardware 
  • Write correct, maintainable and fast code, as part of a growing team 
  • Develop system tools such as compilers, schedulers and profilers- Develop functional and performance models of hardware 
  • Verify and benchmark whole-system correctness and performance 
  • Collaborate with scientists and engineers to build effective solutions 

Requirements

What we need 

  • A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline 
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal 
  • Curiosity to learn new things 
  • Ability to work collaboratively, with a diverse range of people 
  • Knowledge and interest in the whole software and hardware stack: compilers, operating systems, hardware architecture, microprocessors, co-processors 
  • Proficiency in Python  
  • Experience programming in C++, Rust, or C 
  • Experience in team-based software development. This could be from industry, university or research labs. 
  • Knowledge or experience of working in open source 
  • Experience in standard development tools such as git, testing frameworks, CI etc. 

 

How to apply 

Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply Now'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role.  

We review CVs as we receive them and interview as soon as we have applications that look like a good match. We do not use closing dates, so, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this role. We advertised this role on 24th February, 2025.  

If you have any queries, please contact .  

Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity. 

Studies have shown that women tend to apply to jobs if they meet all or almost all of the requirements whereas men apply even if they meet only some of the requirements. If that sounds like you then please apply – we are happy to review your application and let you know if we think you might be a good fit. 

If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help. 

Benefits

What you can expect from us 

  • A comprehensive benefits package, including annual bonus scheme, private medical insurance, life insurance, a contributory pension scheme (and much more) 
  • Equity so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane 
  • 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and enhanced family leave 
  • A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics, maths and many more) and over 20 different nationalities 
  • A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and learning, including an annual training and conference budget 

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Maths for Quantum Jobs: The Only Topics You Actually Need (& How to Learn Them) Linear algebra essentials, probability, complex numbers, basic optimisation.

If you are a software engineer, data scientist or ML engineer looking to move into quantum computing or you are a UK undergraduate or postgraduate in physics, maths, computer science or engineering applying for quantum roles, the maths can feel like the biggest barrier. Job descriptions often say “strong maths” but rarely spell out what that means in practice. The good news is you do not need a full maths degree’s worth of theory to start applying. For most graduate & early-career roles in quantum software, quantum research engineering & quantum algorithms, the maths you actually use again & again is concentrated in four areas: linear algebra, probability, complex numbers & basic optimisation. This guide turns vague requirements into a clear, job-focused checklist. You will learn what to focus on, what to leave for later & how to build small portfolio outputs that prove you can translate the maths into working code.

Neurodiversity in Quantum Computing Careers: Turning Different Thinking into a Superpower

Quantum computing is one of the most demanding – & exciting – areas in technology. It sits at the intersection of physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering & even philosophy. The problems are complex, the systems are fragile, & the answers are rarely obvious. That’s exactly why quantum needs people who think differently. If you live with ADHD, autism or dyslexia, you may have been told your brain is “too distracted”, “too literal” or “too chaotic” for high-end research or deep technical roles. In reality, many of the traits that made school or traditional workplaces difficult can be huge strengths in quantum computing – from intense focus on niche topics to pattern recognition in noisy data & creative approaches to algorithms. This guide is for neurodivergent job seekers exploring quantum computing careers in the UK. We’ll look at: What neurodiversity means in a quantum computing context How ADHD, autism & dyslexia strengths map onto common quantum roles Practical workplace adjustments you can ask for under UK law How to talk about your neurodivergence in applications & interviews By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of where you might thrive in quantum computing – & how to turn “different thinking” into a genuine superpower.

Quantum Computing Hiring Trends 2026: What to Watch Out For (For Job Seekers & Recruiters)

As we move into 2026, the quantum computing jobs market in the UK is shifting from hype to harder-edged reality. The wildest forecasts have softened, some early-stage start-ups have pivoted or been acquired, and investors are more selective. At the same time, governments, big tech, defence, finance and pharma still see quantum as strategically important – especially in algorithms, quantum-safe cryptography, optimisation and materials simulation. The result: fewer “blue-sky” roles with no clear roadmap, and more demand for quantum talent that can plug into real programmes, real products and real timelines. Whether you’re a quantum job seeker planning your next move, or a recruiter building teams across hardware, software, theory or adjacent fields, understanding the key quantum computing hiring trends for 2026 will help you stay ahead.