At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop software for quantum hardware control and collaborate with physicists and engineers.
- Company: Join QuEra Computing Inc., a leader in quantum technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of quantum computing and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in software development for hardware control.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our QPU SW Engineering team. In this role, you will develop the software that orchestrates and controls our quantum hardware stack—from real-time control of lasers and FPGAs to system-wide configuration, diagnostics, and feedback. Working closely with physicists, systems architects, and hardware engineers, you’ll build the tools and infrastructure that enable precise, reliable, and scalable quantum operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement software systems for orchestrating quantum experiments, including pulse sequence generation, device coordination, and real-time system control.
- Develop and maintain APIs and middleware that connect hardware control layers (e.g., FPGA, DACs, timing systems) with higher-level orchestration software and compilers.
- Implement reliable communication and synchronization protocols across embedded and distributed system components.
- Collaborate with system architects and physicists to translate experimental requirements into testable, high-performance software features.
- Contribute to diagnostic and calibration routines for hardware validation and performance monitoring.
- Develop tooling to support automation, test infrastructure, system state management, and logging.
- Participate in system bring‑up, integration testing, and cross‑disciplinary debugging efforts.
- Contribute to software architecture decisions, code reviews, and best practices across the engineering team.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience developing software for hardware control, embedded systems, or distributed systems.
- Strong programming skills in Python and/or C/C++, and experience working with hardware interfaces (e.g., SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet).
- Experience with real‑time systems or hardware‑in‑the‑loop control environments.
- Familiarity with timing systems (e.g., PTP), and communication stacks.
- Proficiency in system integration, testing, and performance tuning.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with scientific instrumentation, lab automation, or quantum hardware control systems.
- Familiarity with FPGA systems, DAC/ADC control, or pulse sequencing frameworks.
- Exposure to embedded Linux, RTOS, or custom firmware development.
- Knowledge of calibration, feedback, or control loop algorithms.
- Experience in multidisciplinary teams working at the intersection of hardware, software, and science.
QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
QPU Software Engineer employer: QuEra Computing Inc.
QuEra Computing Inc. is an exceptional employer for those passionate about quantum technology, offering a collaborative work culture where software engineers can thrive alongside physicists and hardware engineers. With a strong commitment to employee growth, QuEra provides opportunities for professional development in cutting-edge fields, while fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that values every individual's contribution. Located in a vibrant tech hub, employees benefit from access to innovative resources and a community dedicated to advancing quantum computing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land QPU Software Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the quantum computing field, attend meetups, and connect with QuEra employees on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio or GitHub with projects related to hardware control or embedded systems, make sure to highlight them. Real-world examples of your work can really impress hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your programming skills in Python and C/C++. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss your experience with real-time systems and hardware interfaces.
✨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 at QuEra. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace QPU Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the QPU Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with software for hardware control and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in Python or C/C++. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about quantum computing and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but engaging—let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on projects involving real-time systems or hardware interfaces, make sure to mention them. We love seeing practical examples of your work, especially if they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at QuEra Computing!
How to prepare for a job interview at QuEra Computing Inc.
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your quantum mechanics basics and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description. Understanding how lasers, FPGAs, and real-time systems work will not only impress your interviewers but also help you answer technical questions with confidence.
✨Show Off Your Coding Skills
Be prepared to discuss your programming experience, especially in Python and C/C++. You might even be asked to solve a coding problem on the spot, so practice common algorithms and data structures beforehand. Familiarity with hardware interfaces will give you an edge, so don’t shy away from discussing your past projects.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working closely with physicists and hardware engineers, be ready to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in multidisciplinary teams, and highlight any challenges you overcame while integrating software with hardware.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their current projects, the team dynamics, or how they approach system integration and testing. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
