IBM Quantum is seeking a Quantum Materials R&D Engineer to join the Quantum Hardware team at the IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center in Yorktown Heights, NY. In this role, you will contribute to the development, characterization, and optimization of advanced materials and processes, including superconducting thin films, interconnects, and solder systems, that support next-generation quantum computing technologies.
This position is ideal for a highly collaborative, hands-on engineer or scientist who enjoys addressing complex materials challenges in a laboratory setting. Prior quantum computing experience is not required. Candidates with strong backgrounds in materials science, materials characterization, thin-film technologies, metallization, interconnects, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
This is a fully on-site position based in Yorktown Heights, NY.
Your role and responsibilities
As a Quantum Materials R&D Engineer, you will leverage your expertise in materials deposition, fabrication, characterization, and failure analysis while working closely with scientists and engineers across the quantum hardware organization. This hands-on role involves extensive laboratory work utilizing advanced fabrication and metrology tools to develop, process, and evaluate materials and devices.
Advanced Materials Development & Optimization- Develop and optimize advanced packaging interconnects, metal thin films, and solder systems to improve device yield, reliability, and performance.
- Investigate and mitigate materials-related loss mechanisms through the study of interfacial scattering, grain boundaries, defects, and chemical inhomogeneities.
- Design and execute experiments using purpose-built test vehicles to evaluate materials behavior and performance.
- Partner with design and process engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of new materials into advanced packaging solutions.
Metrology & Characterization- Prepare and analyze samples using best practices and advanced characterization techniques.
- Perform detailed electrical, structural, and chemical analyses to understand material and interface properties.
- Apply statistical and analytical methods to extract meaningful insights from complex experimental datasets.
- Design and execute characterization plans using tools such as XPS, SIMS, FIB/TEM cross-sections, XRD, and XRF to identify root causes and drive process improvements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Identify technical risks, guide material selection decisions, and support integration of new materials into fabrication processes and device architectures.
- Contribute technical leadership within multidisciplinary project teams and mentor junior engineers as needed.
Documentation & Communication- Maintain comprehensive records of experimental procedures, process development activities, and test results.
- Present technical findings, recommendations, and project updates to internal stakeholders and leadership.
Required education
Bachelor's Degree
Preferred education
Doctorate Degree
Required technical and professional expertise
- Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field; OR
- M.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant industry experience; OR
- B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of relevant industry experience.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in the characterization and development of superconductors, metallic thin films, and/or solder systems.
- Demonstrated expertise in materials characterization and data-driven problem solving.
- Strong laboratory experience and ability to independently design and execute experiments.
Preferred technical and professional experience
- Experience depositing, characterizing, and performing electrical measurements on superconducting materials.
- Hands-on experience with one or more advanced characterization techniques, including XPS, SIMS, FIB, and TEM.
- Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes, cleanroom environments, and associated process tools
OTHER RELEVANT JOB DETAILSIBM offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program. Eligible employees may have access to:
- Healthcare benefits including medical & prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and mental health & well being
- Financial programs such as 401(k), cash balance pension plan, the IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan, financial counseling, life insurance, short & long- term disability coverage, and opportunities for performance based salary incentive programs
- Generous paid time off including 12 holidays, minimum 56 hours sick time, 120 hours vacation, 12 weeks parental bonding leave in accordance with IBM Policy, and other Paid Care Leave programs. IBM also offers paid family leave benefits to eligible employees where required by applicable law
- Training and educational resources on our personalized, AI-driven learning platform where IBMers can grow skills and obtain industry-recognized certifications to achieve their career goals
- Diverse and inclusive employee resource groups, giving & volunteer opportunities, and discounts on retail products, services & experiences
We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable law.
This position was posted on the date cited in the key job details section and is anticipated to remain posted for 21 days from this date or less if not needed to fill the role.
IBM will not be providing visa sponsorship for this position now or in the future. Therefore, in order to be considered for this position, you must have the ability to work without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.
The compensation range and benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year. The salary will vary depending on your job-related skills, experience and location. Pay increment and frequency of pay will be in accordance with employment classification and applicable laws. For part time roles, your compensation and benefits will be adjusted to reflect your hours. Benefits may be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.
