Quantum Research Scientist

TAP Engineering • College Park, MD

2d • $80,000 - $230,000

About The Position

TAP Engineering is seeking a Quantum Research Scientist in College Park, Maryland, to support applied research in strategic National Priority topics within Solid State & Quantum Information Science (SSQIS). The role requires knowledge or experience in theoretical, experimental, or modeling and simulation work involving superconducting qubits. Relevant areas include qubit design and optimization, fabrication, control and readout, gates, performance benchmarking, and related technologies. The scientist will review and analyze research and reports concerning quantum computing and qubit technologies, identify new research directions and novel approaches, and support the progress and transition of research efforts. This is a technical leadership role without supervisory responsibility, requiring clear, professional communication.

The research team includes scientists at multiple levels, ranging from junior to principal, determined by education and experience. The anticipated salary range is $80,000–$230,000, based on relevant experience, qualifications, and other applicable factors. An active TS/SCI clearance with appropriate polygraph is preferred; candidates without clearance must be able to obtain and maintain one. U.S. citizenship is required for clearance processing.

Requirements

• Experience in one or more of the following areas: theoretical, experimental, or modeling and simulation of superconducting qubits; qubit design and optimization; qubit fabrication; qubit control and readout; qubit gates; performance benchmarking; or analysis of error sources.
• Ability to understand current limitations and determine potential future improvements is preferred.
• Ability to accurately convey technical and scientific issues to people with varying levels of expertise.
• Ability to write concisely.
• Persuasive speaking and writing skills.
• For Level 1: no degree with 6 or more years of experience; a bachelor’s degree with 2 or more years of related experience; or a master’s degree with 1 or more years of related experience.
• For Level 2: no degree with 12 or more years of experience; a bachelor’s degree with 6 or more years of related experience; a master’s degree with 6 or more years of related experience; or a Ph.D. with 4 or more years of related experience.
• For Level 3: no degree with 16 or more years of experience; a bachelor’s degree with 12 or more years of related experience; a master’s degree with 10 or more years of related experience; or a Ph.D. with 8 or more years of related experience.
• U.S. citizenship is required for security clearance processing.
• Candidates without an active clearance must be able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in quantum information research, experimental or theoretical, particularly quantum computing research.
• Postdoctoral experience or equivalent.
• Expertise in quantum information theory.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and efficiently within a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with appropriate polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support and expertise in SSQIS.
• Assimilate and integrate technical inputs from performers and analyze technical deliverables and reports.
• Assist the government’s technical element in managing the SSQIS research portfolio.
• Conduct technical writing and prepare presentation materials.
• Independently review and summarize related technical literature and emerging technologies, and participate in technical exchanges and workshops related to program technical areas.
• Develop and document testing methodology and protocols, ensuring alignment with program technology components.
• Coordinate, align, and schedule technology development tasks, and continuously analyze technical progress against planned cost and schedule.
• Perform technical and programmatic risk analysis, review, and tracking.
• Envision and articulate new areas of research, exploration, and novel approaches.
• Provide guidance and help transition efforts for future development while monitoring and engaging with ongoing progress.

Benefits

• 15–25 days of paid time off annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays.
• Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing.
• Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents.
• Employer-paid dental and vision plans, with optional enhancements.
• Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework.
• Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support.
• Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed