Principal Quantum Architect

Microsoft • Santa Barbara, CA

1d

About The Position

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. We are looking for a Principal Quantum Architect to help define our next-generation topological quantum system. Focusing on the readout and control layer, including room-temperature instruments and software, you translate system requirements into subsystem and component requirements with an eye towards scalability. Along the way, you use modern AI tools to validate architectural concepts through rapid prototyping. 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.

Requirements

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 3+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment OR Master's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment OR Bachelor's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 8+ 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.
• Ability to use AI tools to improve engineering productivity, including performance analysis, research synthesis, and routine workflow automation.
• Ability to work effectively in an AI-first environment by incorporating modern AI tools into day-to-day hardware development and decision-making.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with quantum algorithms and quantum error correction as well as an understanding of how they are executed in real-world settings.
• Understanding of end-to-end system architecture for quantum computing platforms, including how requirements flow down from system goals to subsystem and component specifications.
• Strong scientific programming skills, including experience developing software for complex research environments and contributing to codebases that support experimentation and long-term maintainability.
• Experience with performance-aware software design and scaling computational workflows, including parallel, distributed, or high-performance computing environments.
• Demonstrated ability to leverage modern AI tools for rapid prototyping

Responsibilities

• Analyze qubit tuning and quantum circuit execution flows in measurement-based topological quantum systems, translating system-level needs into scalable architectural requirements.
• Define and drive subsystem requirements for the readout, control, and orchestration software layers, ensuring alignment with system performance, scalability, and operational goals.
• Analyze performance and scaling through scaling analysis, behavioral modeling, and rapid prototyping.
• Communicate architectural concepts, tradeoffs, and recommendations effectively across a multi-disciplinary team.
• Leverage modern AI tools to support architectural validation, rapid prototyping, performance analysis, and engineering productivity.
• Embody our Culture and Values.

Benefits

• Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree