At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to help design and build the high-performance control systems that drive our next-generation quantum computing platforms. In this role, you’ll work across embedded software, real-time systems, GPU/FPGA acceleration, and hardware orchestration to deliver deterministic, high-throughput control pipelines. Your work will directly shape how our quantum processors operate, scale, and perform.
This is a hands-on engineering role for someone who loves deep systems work, understands hardware/software co-design, and thrives at the intersection of physics, architecture, and performance engineering. Due to the need for collaboration with Atom’s theory, software and hardware teams, this role is required to be in the office in Boulder or Austin at least 3 days per week.
Job Responsibilities
- Build and test embedded firmware and software powering high-speed software defined radios (SDRs), imaging pipelines, precision scientific instrumentation, and real-time digital feedback loops.
- Design and optimize deterministic, low-latency software for quantum hardware — including device drivers, Linux kernel modules, and custom subsystems.
- Evaluate and architect real-time execution strategies across Linux and RTOS environments; drive design decisions around determinism, throughput, and system scalability.
- Develop orchestration layers coordinating GPUs, FPGAs, and custom electronics for high-bandwidth, tightly synchronized quantum control operations.
- Rapidly prototype and iterate using Rust, Python, C/C++, and CUDA
- Collaborate with quantum theorists, hardware engineers, and platform software teams to translate quantum control flows into fast, reliable, production-ready code.
Experience & Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree a plus
- At least 8 years of relevant postgraduate professional experience
Qualifications
- Proficiency in software development using C++, Python, Rust, or Go; experience with NVIDIA CUDA toolchains and ability to apply these skills in rapid prototyping and production systems.
- Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: computer architecture, signal processing, algorithm development, quantum error correction, distributed systems, or compilers, with a willingness to learn across disciplines as needed.
- Organizational, coordination, and multi-tasking expertise.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills involving large-scale systems.
- Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to teamwork
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- At least 8 years of relevant postgraduate professional experience
- Proficiency in software development using C++, Python, Rust, or Go
- Experience with NVIDIA CUDA toolchains and CUDA-based GPU development
- Experience developing embedded firmware, real-time systems, device drivers, and Linux kernel modules
- Experience with GPUs, FPGAs, and orchestration of heterogeneous hardware for synchronized control
- Knowledge in one or more areas: computer architecture, signal processing, algorithm development, quantum error correction, distributed systems, or compilers
- Organizational, coordination, and multi-tasking expertise
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills for large-scale systems
- Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to teamwork
- Ability to work in-office in Boulder or Austin at least three days per week
Atom Computing Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Atom Computing and has not been reviewed or approved by Atom Computing.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare benefits include fully paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, plus life and disability protection. This is presented as a significant strength of the total rewards package.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Unlimited paid time off is offered and highlighted in company materials and postings. This policy is intended to support work-life balance.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) company match is offered to support retirement planning. This adds meaningful long-term value alongside salary and health benefits.
Atom Computing Insights
What We Do
Scientific and technological breakthroughs take years of tireless work, fighting for resources and pushing for acceptance of new ideas. What keeps researchers and engineers plodding on to the next big discovery? It’s an obsession. A life’s calling. At Atom Computing, we’re our customers’ biggest fans on the journey of discovery. That’s why we’re obsessed with creating the world’s most scalable and reliable quantum computers—giving them the power to develop breakthroughs that change the world.
