RF Engineering Jobs

Know the Basics

Designing radio frequency signals and electronics that control quantum computers; like creating the invisible radio waves that tell quantum bits what to do and when to do it.

Quantum computing will not rely exclusively on physics or algorithms … a well-rounded quantum engineer needs microwave engineering, electrical engineering & circuit knowledge integrated with quantum mechanics. from a U.S. Government RFI on quantum workforce requirements.

What does an RF engineer do in quantum computing?

RF engineers design accuracy, low-noise electronics and radio frequency signals for quantum devices. They are working across disciplines to integrate electronics with optics, vacuum, and quantum systems. You’d make signal generators, design filters, implement noise reduction, and ensure all RF signals are perfectly time aligned.

How much can RF engineers in quantum computing earn?

The typical base pay range across the U.S. is $100,600 - 199,000 a year; Beginners often start around $90,000 - 110,000, experienced engineers make $115,000 - 160,000, and senior RF specialists can earn $170,000 - 200,000+ a year.

Suggested Read: Quantum Jobs Salaries

What technical skills do RF engineers need for quantum jobs?

• Timing Precision: Ensuring that signals arrive at precisely the correct microsecond;  
• Noise Reduction: Preventing unwanted signals from interfering with quantum operations;
• Signal Design: Developing clear radio frequency signals that are free from noise; 
• Circuit Design: Constructing electronic components that generate and manage RF signals.  

How is quantum RF engineering different from regular RF work?

Quantum systems are extremely sensitive; even minor timing errors or noise can destroy everything. RF engineers might tolerate some interference, quantum RF must have signals that are near perfect. You are working at much lower temperatures, signals are much weaker, and the system is using nanosecond time intervals.  

You need to inject signals that are very, very fast and very, very short. If you don’t control both the frequency and duration of these signals very precisely; then your qubit won’t behave the way you want. Leandro Stefanazzi, Fermilab engineer.

Which companies hire RF engineers for quantum computing?

There are over 7700 quantum computing RF jobs available. IBM, Google, Microsoft, Rigetti and Amazon AWS all need RF engineers. Trapped ion companies like, IonQ and Honeywell also hire RF specialists. Defense contractors and national labs working on quantum sensors look for RF expertise too.

Can telecommunications RF engineers move into quantum computing?

Yes! Your experience with RF circuits, signal generation, and noise management transfers perfectly. You need to learn the basics of quantum, figure out the reasoning for the accuracy of timing, and get an understanding of electronics at cryogenic temperatures. A lot of quantum companies currently target RF engineers from the telecom and wireless industries.