At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of Deltakit, shaping its direction for quantum computing.
- Company: Join Riverlane, a pioneering tech company in quantum computing.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private medical insurance, and equity options.
- Other info: Diverse work environment with excellent growth opportunities and a focus on learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the quantum open-source community and drive innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong background in software development, especially in Python, and collaborative skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 90000 £ per year.
Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent
Salary: £72,000 - £90,000 DOE
We also consider part‑time applications. Specify preferred working schedule in your cover letter.
About The Role
At Riverlane, our mission is to make it possible for anyone to write and run fault‑tolerant programs on a quantum computer. A key part of that mission is Deltakit, our open‑source, user‑facing platform for building, simulating and interpreting quantum error‑correction experiments. As a Senior Software Engineer you will own and lead the development of Deltakit, shaping its direction and ensuring it evolves to meet the needs of a growing, highly‑technical user community. This role sits at the intersection of research and engineering. You will take cutting‑edge ideas from the forefront of QEC and turn them into robust, intuitive software that researchers can rely on. You’ll drive the design and delivery of new features, improve performance and usability, and ensure the platform scales as adoption grows. You’ll also play a key role in planning and prioritising the development roadmap, aligning technical delivery with research milestones, user needs, and broader organisational goals, defining technical direction, making architectural decisions and setting the standard for high‑quality code.
Responsibilities
- Lead significant parts of both the internal and external software stack for error‑corrected quantum computing systems
- Turn internal tools into external and public tools.
- Own the complete software cycle: design, development, testing, builds, workflows, releases
- Mentor, guide and lead engineers in the team
- Lead collaboration with other engineering teams to integrate their software and hardware artifacts with Deltakit
- Engage with the community of users and researchers to identify needs and formulate adequate responses
- Contribute actively to open‑source projects and lead the Deltakit open‑source community
- Organise and run workshops and tutorials for the community of users
Qualifications
- Strong technical foundation (e.g., computer science, mathematics, physics or similar)
- Experience designing and building high‑quality scientific or technical software, primarily in Python
- Ability to translate complex, research‑driven concepts into robust, scalable and user‑friendly solutions
- Broad understanding of software systems (e.g., compilers, operating systems, computer architecture)
- Experience shipping software to users and maintaining high engineering standards
- Curiosity and a strong drive to learn and solve complex problems
- Collaborative mindset, with experience working across diverse teams
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to shape technical direction, drive best practices, and support others through mentorship and leadership
- Interest in contributing to the quantum open‑source ecosystem
Even Better If
- Experience with a strongly typed language (e.g., C++ or Rust)
Benefits
- A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme
- 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 and maths) and over 20 different nationalities
- A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets
Equal Opportunity Statement
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. Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all the requirements. If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply – you may be a great fit, even if you don’t meet every single qualification. We’d love to hear from you. 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.
Senior Software Engineer - Open Source in Cambridge employer: Riverlane
Riverlane is an exceptional employer located in Cambridge, UK, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where innovation thrives. As a Senior Software Engineer, you will benefit from a comprehensive package that includes competitive salary, equity options, and generous leave policies, all while collaborating with a diverse team of experts in quantum computing. The company prioritises employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and mentorship, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in cutting-edge technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Software Engineer - Open Source in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the quantum computing community, attend meetups, and engage on platforms like GitHub. Building connections can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Contribute to open-source projects related to quantum computing or Deltakit. This not only boosts your profile but also demonstrates your commitment to the field and your ability to collaborate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your Python skills and understanding software systems. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss how you’d tackle real-world problems in quantum error correction.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Riverlane.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Engineer - Open Source in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your cover letter for the Senior Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with open-source projects and how it aligns with our mission at Riverlane. We want to see your passion for quantum computing shine through!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, don’t hold back on showcasing your technical foundation. Mention specific programming languages, especially Python, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing how you’ve turned complex ideas into user-friendly solutions.
Be Clear About Your Availability:If you’re considering part-time work, be upfront about your preferred schedule in your cover letter. We’re flexible and want to find a working arrangement that suits both you and us!
Engage with Our Community:Mention any previous experiences engaging with user communities or contributing to open-source projects. We value collaboration and want to know how you can help us grow the Deltakit community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverlane
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on quantum error correction concepts and how they relate to software development. Being able to discuss Deltakit and its role in the quantum computing landscape will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Show Off Your Coding Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your Python expertise, as well as any experience with C++ or Rust if you have it. Be ready to discuss past projects where you’ve built high-quality software, focusing on your design choices and problem-solving strategies.
✨Engage with the Community
Familiarise yourself with open-source contributions and community engagement. Be prepared to talk about how you would lead workshops or tutorials for users, and share your thoughts on fostering a collaborative environment within the Deltakit community.
✨Be Ready to Lead
As a Senior Software Engineer, leadership is key. Think about examples from your past where you've mentored others or led a project. Highlight your ability to shape technical direction and drive best practices, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
