The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing in Pasadena, CA, is looking to hire an Applied Scientist in the Processor Test and Measurement group. You will join a multi-disciplinary team of theoretical and experimental physicists, materials scientists, and hardware and software engineers working at the forefront of quantum computing. This role focuses on the verification and validation of the circuit components that make up a quantum error correction (QEC) code - such as gates, reset, and readout - and on understanding how the performance of those components contributes to overall QEC performance.
We are looking for someone who enjoys connecting component-level measurements to integrated system behavior, and who is motivated by working across teams to understand it. Much of the work involves partnering with processor design, theory, and QEC colleagues to validate that new devices behave as their Hamiltonians predict, and to explore the gaps when they don't. A comfort with error budgeting - reasoning about where component performance comes from and what limits it - is central to the role.
Candidates with a track record of original scientific contributions will be preferred. We value strong engineering principles, resourcefulness, problem solving, and clear communication, along with the ability to work effectively within a team. As an Applied Scientist you will have the opportunity to pursue new ideas and stay abreast of the field of experimental quantum computation.
Key job responsibilities
We are looking to hire an Applied Scientist to help verify and validate the circuit components of our error-corrected quantum processors and to understand how their performance maps to QEC requirements. Depending on background and interest, the work may include:
- Collaborating with theory and processor design teams to develop experimental test plans that validate new processor designs and check that fabricated devices meet their intent.
- Characterizing the building blocks of a QEC code and building error budgets that explain and bound their performance.
- Designing experiments that help separate effects such as crosstalk and spectator interactions from intrinsic component performance.
- Prototyping calibration and measurement approaches that can later be matured for automated, large-scale processor bring-up and QEC demonstrations.
- Investigating discrepancies between measured and expected behavior, and feeding what you learn back into design and theory.
You will have the opportunity to take part in high-impact research projects that intersect with our engineering roadmap, working closely with processor, theory, and QEC stakeholders so that component-level decisions are informed by overall system performance.
A day in the life
About the team
Export Control Requirement:
Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a US export license. If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, please apply and Amazon will review your application for eligibility.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience programming in Java, C++, Python or related language
- Master's degree or above in electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics or physics
- Experience working on multi-team, cross-disciplinary projects
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in any qubit modality, cavity/circuit QED, and microwave control of quantum systems
- Knowledge of two-qubit gate dynamics, readout modeling techniques, and low-level pulse optimization
- Experience with automated quantum processor bring-up and optimization for QEC applications
- Experience working with cryogenic systems and microwave control systems including wiring, microwave filters, and RF control electronics.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, CA, Pasadena - 136,000.00 - 184,000.00 USD annually
