Principal Quantum Engineer - Readout

Job Title

Principal Quantum Engineer - Readout

Role Summary

Design, test, and integrate scalable readout circuitry for topological qubits as an individual contributor on a multidisciplinary quantum engineering team. The role focuses on measurement systems engineering across component, subsystem, and system levels to enable a measurement-based quantum computing architecture.

Work is mostly on-site with a flexible schedule; in-office requirement is about 3 days per week. Travel is less than 25%.

Experience Level

Level: Senior. Typical experience guidance: Doctorate +3 years, Master's +6 years, Bachelor's +8 years, or equivalent experience. Preferred experience levels are higher (e.g., PhD +5, MS +8, BS +12).

Responsibilities

Core responsibilities include:

• Lead design and testing of scalable readout circuitry for topological qubits at component, subsystem, and system levels.
• Codesign readout systems with qubit, control, and cross-functional teams to meet evolving requirements.
• Plan and execute measurements; analyze, interpret, document, and present results to teammates and external audiences.
• Develop engineering tools, processes, and best practices to accelerate quantum research and development.
• Maintain and promote safety and compliance practices; assist in defining safety protocols.
• Represent the team in presentations and technical discussions with customers and peers.

Requirements

Must-have qualifications and skills (technical and operational):

• Ability to pass Microsoft Cloud Background Check and satisfy export-control-related citizenship or residency verification as required for the role.
• Proven experience in systems engineering, experimental measurement design, and hardware test in a research or R&D environment.
• Familiarity with RF and microwave measurement techniques and low-noise signal chains used in quantum device readout.
• Experience working effectively on interdisciplinary teams and producing clear technical documentation and presentations.
• Ability to leverage AI tools to support measurement, modeling, analysis, research, and routine engineering tasks.
• Strong problem-solving skills and effective verbal and written communication.
• Nice-to-have: hands-on experience with RF readout techniques for solid-state qubits (e.g., RF-SETs, dispersive readout), semiconductor spin devices, cryogenic microwave experiments, or low-noise amplifiers.

Education Requirements

Minimum qualifications stated as degree-plus-experience combinations: Doctorate (PhD) in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with 3+ years; OR Master’s (MS) in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with 6+ years; OR Bachelor’s (BS) in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with 8+ years; OR equivalent practical experience (postdoctoral experience included as applicable). Preferred experience levels: PhD +5 years, MS +8 years, BS +12 years. Fields cited: Physics, Engineering, or related technical fields.

About the Company

Company: Microsoft

Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States

Microsoft is a global technology company that develops and sells software, services, devices, and solutions. Known for its Windows operating system, Office suite, and Azure cloud platform, Microsoft aims to empower individuals and organizations around the world to achieve more. The company fosters a culture of innovation and inclusion, focusing on delivering trusted experiences to customers and partners globally.