Principal Quantum Software Engineer

At Microsoft Quantum, we aim to empower science and scientists to solve the world’s biggest problems by realizing advanced computing platforms at the intersection of high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, and quantum information technology. The Microsoft Quantum program strives to fundamentally change the world of computing to help solve some of humankind’s currently unsolvable problems. We are on the cusp of an accelerated effort in quantum computing. This position offers an opportunity to have a meaningful influence on a revolutionary technology. For more information about the Microsoft Quantum team, please visit  https://quantum.microsoft.com/. 

The Quantum program is seeking a Principal Quantum Software Engineer to develop the world’s first scalable quantum computing system. This role is suited for engineers who independently deliver complex quantum engineering work while expanding technical depth and crossteam influence.  

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.  

• Technical Execution & Engineering: Support the design, implementation, and improvement of quantum devices and supporting technologies by running experiments, simulations, and engineering analyses that evaluate performance, validate designs, and guide nextstep enhancements, applying strong engineering and physics fundamentals throughout.  

• Measurement, Experimentation & Analysis: Develop and apply measurement techniques to characterize devices, materials, or systems; analyze experimental or simulation data to guide decisions; and refine designs or approaches based on results and feedback.   

• Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing: Partner with crossdisciplinary hardware, software, fabrication, and research teams to align on technical goals, document methods and results for reuse, and integrate expert input as needed.   

• Tools, Safety & Best Practices: Apply engineering best practices to develop and improve tools, processes, and documentation that support quantum R&D, and uphold safety and laboratory standards, escalating issues as needed to maintain a safe work environment.  

• Community & Outreach (as applicable): Contribute to internal knowledge sharing through presentations, documentation, or technical discussions, and support external engagement - such as conferences, workshops, or collaborations—alongside senior team members.

Other

• Embody our culture and values.  

Required/Minimum Qualifications 

• Doctorate in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 3+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers, scientific computing applications, or multi-component systems
  • OR Master's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 4+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers, scientific computing applications, or multi-component systems
  • OR Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Physical Sciences, or related field AND 6+ years software industry experience, including developing commercial software, compilers, scientific computing applications, or multi-component systems