Senior Quantum Applications Engineer

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NASDAQ: QBTS) is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. It is the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the first and only to offer dual-platform quantum computing products and services, spanning both annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies. D-Wave’s mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum today through enterprise-grade systems available on-premises and via its Leap™ quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations across commercial, government, and research sectors trust D-Wave to address complex computational challenges using quantum computing. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how D-Wave is shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com. 

About the role

We are seeking a talented Senior Quantum Applications Engineer to join our quantum applications and algorithms team. Our goal is to develop high-impact algorithms that will make our gate-model quantum systems valuable to users.  We're searching for candidates who possess a robust technical background, particularly in developing quantum applications for fields such as chemistry, machine learning, and quantum error correction. The ideal candidate will not only bring substantial technical expertise to our diverse team but will also excel in facilitating clear communication across internal software, firmware, and hardware teams and with our users.

What you'll do

• Collaborate with multiple research and engineering teams to design, implement, and rigorously test novel high-impact quantum applications in domains such as chemistry, materials science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, finance, and cryptography

• Explore applications from post-NISQ through to fault-tolerant commercial utility

• Identify algorithms that enhance the value of our quantum hardware by considering its specific features and constraints

• Implement and support simulation features

• Work closely with quantum engineers to execute quantum applications on hardware

About You

• MS or PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or related field with a specialization in quantum computing. Equivalent industry experience will also be considered

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in the development, simulation, and deployment of quantum algorithms including NISQ algorithms

• Minimum 3+ years of experience with Python programming or another general-purpose language, with a demonstrated track record of shipping production-quality code

• Expertise with one or more quantum computing SDKs like Qiskit, PennyLane, or CUDA Quantum

• Expertise with principles of quantum computing and quantum information science

• Demonstrated depth in at least one application vertical (e.g., quantum chemistry, machine learning, finance, optimization, or cryptography), with hands-on project or product experience beyond coursework

• Strong software engineering skills: writing clean, well-tested, maintainable code and collaborating through code review, version control, and CI/CD in a team environment

• Familiarity with AI-assisted software development using LLM-based coding tools (e.g., Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, or ChatGPT Codex), including sound judgment about when to rely on their output and when to independently verify it

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team. 

During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.   

Inclusion: 

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

The Fine Print: 

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

It is D-Wave policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law. 

The base pay range for this role is:

125,000 – 187,000 USD per year (New Haven)