Senior Cryogenic Engineer

The Microsoft Quantum team is redefining what is possible with technology—creating unprecedented possibilities to solve humanity’s most complex challenges. Our team combines hardware innovation with software technologies and Azure services to build scalable quantum technologies in an industry-leading quantum ecosystem.  

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 (AI), and quantum information technology. Microsoft Quantum will change the world of computing and help solve some of humankind’s currently unsolvable problems. For more information about our team, visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/quantum.  

We are seeking a Senior Cryogenic Engineer to lead the upgrade, maintenance, and lifecycle management of dilution refrigerators and cryogenic systems across multiple laboratories. 

This role is responsible for ensuring high system reliability, consistent performance, and scalable deployment practices, while driving upgrade programs and supporting advanced quantum hardware integration. The engineer will act as a technical lead and operational owner, coordinating across engineering, facilities, vendors, and global lab teams. 

This position requires deep hands-on expertise with cryogenic systems, strong troubleshooting capability, and the ability to operate effectively in multi-site, high-complexity experimental environments. 

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.  

• Fridge Upgrades & Deployment Leadership: Lead planning and execution of dilution refrigerator and cryostat upgrade programs across multiple labs (e.g., hardware retrofits, wiring upgrades, thermal improvements, system reconfiguration); Define upgrade scopes, validate requirements, and ensure alignment with system performance goals and experimental needs.
• Operations, Maintenance & Reliability: Own the end-to-end lifecycle of cryogenic systems, including maintenance, health monitoring, and performance optimization; Establish and execute preventative maintenance strategies, including pumps, vacuum systems, wiring, and thermal interfaces.
• Multi-Lab Coordination & Scaling: Support operations across multiple global or distributed lab environments, ensuring consistent standards and system performance; Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for installation, operation, and maintenance.
• Technical Ownership & Troubleshooting: Act as the technical expert for cryogenic system performance, including dilution units and gas handling systems, vacuum systems and leak detection, thermalization and heat load management, and RF/DC wiring integration and signal chain considerations.
• Vendor & External Partner Management: Interface with industry vendors for system procurement, upgrades, and maintenance support; Define service expectations, review technical proposals, and ensure delivery quality.
• Other:
  • Embody our Culture and Values.

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 1+ year(s) experience in industry or in a research and development environment, could include completion of a post doctoral research position
  • OR Master's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 4+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment
  • OR Bachelor's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment
  • OR equivalent experience.

• Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:
  • Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Ch