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- Tasks: Develop software for quantum computing and collaborate with top scientists and engineers.
- Company: Join the National Quantum Computing Centre, a leader in quantum technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a generous pension scheme, and 30 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge quantum projects that shape the future.
- Qualifications: Experience in C# and .NET, with a passion for software development.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth and international collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 45500 - 66800 £ per year.
Salary: £56,509 (Band E S1) gross per annum
Contract Type: Up to 2x permanent position
Hours: Full Time (We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants)
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire, UK
Due to the requirement for obtaining an enhanced security clearance for this role, we are only able to accept applications from individuals who have been resident in the UK for the last five years.
About NQCC
The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is the UK’s national laboratory dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of quantum computing. Headquartered at the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, the NQCC works across government, industry, and academia to address the engineering challenges of scaling quantum computers and to build a quantum-ready economy. Its mission is to enable the UK to solve complex societal and industrial challenges by harnessing the transformative potential of quantum computing.
Our Benefits include a flexible working scheme (subject to business requirements), defined benefit pension scheme, and 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and several other benefits.
About the Role
We are looking for 2 Software Engineers to join the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC). You will be working alongside scientists, engineers, developers, and experts in quantum technologies, working to enhance the UK’s quantum computing capabilities. Reporting into the Software and Control Systems Group, the Software Engineer is essential to the delivery of our ambitious technology roadmap for supporting quantum computing for the UK. The Software and Control Systems Group maintains software ranging from the control of quantum computing hardware to providing quantum programming platforms for application engineers.
Our core .NET (C#) platform provides a flexible architecture allowing components to be selected at runtime to form application-specific toolchains. Components span a variety of programming languages (C#, C++, Python) and include:
- Hardware-aware compilation for an in-house quantum system.
- Optimisation of Quantum programming languages.
- Hybrid Quantum/Classical algorithms.
- Quantum Emulation on our in-house HPC cluster.
- Extension points for integrating with third-party tools and web-based Quantum platforms.
- Data analysis and monitoring.
Our Agile process encourages hands-on experience across the full quantum stack. We are building a new team to research and implement a compiler and runtime focused on superconducting qubits. We have 2 positions available to support this: a Compiler Engineer and a Research Software Engineer.
Not only is this an exciting role at the forefront of science and technology, but the candidate will also gain excellent experience in large-scale systems integration across a variety of collaborations in the quantum computing ecosystem.
Person Specification
These roles require someone who can work well as part of a multidisciplinary team, but also demonstrate autonomy within their area of responsibility. You will be proactive, self-motivated, and able to work in a dynamic environment. You will exhibit a pragmatic attitude towards the work of others, particularly in a collaborative environment, whilst having a good eye for detail, interpreting and presenting technical performance data.
Technical expertise in quantum computing is not essential as part of the role, but would be seen as valuable.
(Please note the criteria below will be assessed at the Shortlisting or Interview stage as indicated)
- Educated to degree level or relevant experience in a computing-related discipline (S&I).
- Experience In C# programming language and the .NET ecosystem (S&I).
- Experience in software design, development, and testing (S&I).
- Significant knowledge of Software and Systems Architectures (S&I).
- Strong understanding of Compiler Engineering (S&I).
- Microsoft tools: Windows, Office, Teams, SharePoint, Visual Studio (S&I).
- Demonstrable experience in several of the following: (S&I).
- Agile Engineering Practices.
- DevOps: Kubernetes, CI/CD pipelines.
- High-performance computing.
- Enterprise integration design patterns.
- User interface/user experience development.
- Rust, Python, and C++ programming languages.
- Quantum programming tools & languages.
- Development, test, and deployment of embedded devices.
- Working in a research capacity (e.g. master’s, PhD).
You will be able to work/travel within the UK and overseas as and when required to attend international meetings with collaborators.
Security Clearance
Due to the nature of the role and a requirement to support diverse projects, the successful candidate is required to complete national pre-employment control checks to the BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) to fulfil the role. BPSS checks can take between 9 and 12 working days. Once in post, you will need to successfully complete a Security Check (SC) clearance.
Software Engineer employer: National Quantum Computing Centre
Contact Detail:
National Quantum Computing Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the quantum computing field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the NQCC and their projects, and think about how your skills in C# and .NET can contribute. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely excited about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your coding skills! Brush up on your C# and get comfortable with Agile practices. You might even want to do some mock coding interviews to get into the groove.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with C# and .NET, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or skills that align with quantum computing. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for quantum computing and how your background makes you a great fit for the NQCC. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your technical skills and experiences. Mention any work with Agile practices, DevOps, or high-performance computing. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Quantum Computing Centre
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your C# and .NET skills, as well as any other programming languages mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've used these technologies to solve problems.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role requires collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively with others. Highlight your ability to be proactive and self-motivated while also being a team player.
✨Get Familiar with Quantum Concepts
While technical expertise in quantum computing isn't essential, having a basic understanding can set you apart. Do some research on quantum programming tools and languages, and be ready to discuss how they might relate to the role.
✨Prepare for Agile Discussions
Since the position involves Agile practices, think about your experiences with Agile methodologies. Be ready to explain how you've applied these principles in your previous work and how they can benefit the NQCC's projects.
