Quantum Computing Technology Researcher

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Quantum Computing Technology Researcher to join the Advanced Technologies Group (ATG) within the NERSC division. You will apply expertise to support the advancement of NERSC’s strategy for quantum and hybrid quantum-classical computing while supporting Berkeley Lab’s role in the Genesis Mission.

We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits , including pension or 401K-style plans
• Opportunities to grow in your career - check out our Tuition Assistance Program
• A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
• Pet insurance
  
  

You Will:

• Participate in NERSC’s efforts in assessing emerging quantum computing technologies in architecture, algorithms and programming paradigms to provide input for quantum and HPC system procurements and DOE technology roadmaps.
• Collaborate with theorists and experimentalists to validate hardware noise models against experimental data.
• Investigate pathways for quantum-HPC deployments, including viability criteria and operational requirements.
• Work with vendors to prioritize, develop and enhance their technologies in order to better meet the needs of the DOE Office of Science.
• Analyze the performance and scalability of scientific applications on current and future quantum-HPC computing platforms.
• Prepare timely reports, papers, and lectures describing significant results for dissemination within NERSC and throughout the broader quantum computing and HPC research communities.
• Work on and resolve complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors.
• Exercise judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
• Determine methods and procedures on new assignments and may coordinate activities of other personnel.
• Network with key contacts outside your own area of expertise.
  
  

In Addition, Computer Systems Engineer Level 4:

• Work on and resolve significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles.
• Mentor junior members of staff and postdoctoral fellows.
  
  

Requirements:

Computer Systems Engineer Level 3:

• Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 6 years and a Master’s degree; or a Doctoral degree; or equivalent experience.
• Wide-ranging expertise in the areas of quantum computing.
• Experience independently planning and completing projects.
• Proficient with Python, Julia or other programming languages.
• Ability to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.
• Ability to network and collaborate with key contacts outside your own area of expertise.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a cross-disciplinary team.
  
  

Computer Systems Engineer Level 4:

• Minimum of 12 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 8 years and a Master’s degree; or 4 years and a Doctoral degree; or equivalent experience.
• Broad expertise and/or unique knowledge in the areas of quantum computing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts in a team environment.
• Recognized expertise and established professional network in quantum computing, HPC or related fields.
  
  

Desired Qualifications And Skills/knowledge:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computational Science, Physical Sciences, or related field.
• Experience in quantum processor tuneup and calibration.
• Knowledge of quantum compilation software and pulse-level control.
• Knowledge of contemporary approaches to quantum error correction, quantum resource estimation, noise mitigation, and quantum characterization verification & validation protocols.
• Experience with hands-on execution of experiments and algorithms on quantum processors and interpretation of their results.
• Knowledge of quantum computing architectures, technology trends and their implications.
• Experience in programming and performance analysis of scientific applications of quantum computing.
  
  

In Addition, Computer Systems Engineer Level 4:

• Ability to work on and resolve significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
• Demonstrated track record of research and technical publications in quantum computing.
• Ability to write and present technical papers at conferences and other venues to disseminate research work.
  
  

Additional Information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by May 17, 2026 . Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type:
• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• Salary range:
• The expected salary for the Computer Systems Engineer Level 3 position is $156,800- $191,700, which fits into the full salary of $139,400- $235,300 depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
• The expected salary for the Computer Systems Engineer Level 4 position is $178,600- $218,300, which fits into the full salary of $158,800- $267,900 depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work modality: Work may be performed on-site or hybrid. The primary location for this role is Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work must be performed within the United States. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.
• Multi-level Posting: This position will be hired at a level commensurate with the business needs and the skills, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate.
• Export Control: This position will involve access to hardware, commodities, and technical information subject to export control regulations including, but not limited to, the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and/or International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). Accordingly, any hiring decision may depend in part on Berkeley Lab’s ability to obtain or rely on federal government authorizations as required, if you are not a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S. (“green card holder”), asylee, refugee, or other qualifying protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
  

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:

The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.