Principal Quantum Measurement Engineer
About The Position
Microsoft Quantum is building the world’s first scalable quantum computing system, with a full‑stack approach spanning materials, devices, systems, and cloud services. Our hardware strategy is centered on topological qubits, which require sophisticated nanofabrication of hybrid semiconductor–superconductor devices with stringent control of interfaces, materials quality, and process integration. We are seeking a Principal Quantum Measurement Engineer to lead measurement strategy across quantum materials and device platforms. This role offers the opportunity to shape experimental direction, define new characterization capabilities, and drive insights that directly impact qubit performance and system scalability. As a Principal engineer, you will operate with broad technical ownership, influence cross-disciplinary decisions, and contribute to the long-term direction of Microsoft Quantum hardware. 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.
- Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.
- Citizenship & Citizenship Verification: This role will require access to information that is controlled for export under export control regulations, potentially under the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the EU Dual Use Regulation, and/or other export control regulations. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to provide either proof of their country of citizenship or proof of their U.S. permanent residency or other protected status (e.g., under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) for assessment of eligibility to access the export-controlled information. To meet this legal requirement, and as a condition of employment, the successful candidate’s citizenship will be verified with a valid passport. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may verify status using other documents, where applicable.
- Ability to leverage AI tools to drive innovation and efficiency (e.g., performance modeling and analysis, research gathering, day-to-day task automation).
- Ability to work in an “AI-first” environment using modern AI tools to accelerate discovery through hardware development.
Nice To Haves
- Doctorate in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field OR equivalent experience
- Experience in experimental quantum systems, including: Cryogenic electrical measurements, Data acquisition and analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB), RF measurement and/or time-domain control techniques
- Demonstrated ability to: Lead complex experimental efforts, Translate experimental results into engineering or physics insights, Collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, Leverage AI and automation tools to improve experiment throughput, data analysis, and reproducibility, Mentor junior engineers and scientists and contribute to building a high-performing measurement organization
- Embody Microsoft’s culture and values of respect, integrity, and accountability
- Experience with topological, spin, or superconducting qubits
- Experience with quantum characterization, verification, and validation (QCVV)
- Track record of leading multi-qubit or system-level experiments
- Experience applying AI/ML or automation to experimental workflows
- Record of technical innovation, including publications or patents
Responsibilities
- Define and lead cryogenic electrical characterization of quantum materials and devices, including experiments at millikelvin temperatures and high magnetic fields
- Develop and deploy novel measurement techniques and protocols to address evolving challenges in topological qubit systems
- Drive large-scale experimental campaigns, including data acquisition, statistical analysis, and reporting of results
- Extract and translate experimental data into actionable insights for materials selection, fabrication processes, and device design
- Provide technical leadership and direction for pathfinding devices and next-generation quantum architectures
- Partner across materials science, nanofabrication, theory, and device design teams to accelerate progress
- Communicate complex experimental results effectively to cross-functional and leadership audiences
- Embody our culture and values.
Benefits
- Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
