Quantum Careers Near You in Waterloo
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Waterloo is the birthplace of Canada's quantum revolution and home to the prestigious Institute for Quantum Computing. City is creating an unparalleled concentration of quantum expertise and career opportunities.
Why is Waterloo considered a global quantum computing hub?
The reputation of Waterloo as "Quantum Valley" came from years of development and research. With over 300 researchers associated with the University of Waterloo’s Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), the Institute for Quantum Computing has positioned itself as a leader and global center for quantum research. The Perimeter Institute also brings in leading theorists, while the government enabled the commercialization of quantum technologies by means of Quantum Valley Investments.
The talent that comes out of our institute is our biggest asset. Many of our researchers are pioneers in their fields. Norbert Lütkenhaus, Executive Director of IQC
What types of quantum jobs are available in Waterloo?
Waterloo has a research and development focus. The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) recruits postdoctorates, research assistants, and other personnel for development in experimental and theoretical dimensions of quantum error correction, cryptography, and sensing.
Some private startups focus on quantum innovations in hardware and software. They also offer jobs for quantum engineers, cryogenic engineers, RF engineers, and software developers. It is also frequent to find hybrid roles that combine research with commercialization. You can learn more about Quantum Computing Jobs Canada here.
What's the salary range for quantum positions in Waterloo?
- Postdoctoral researchers: CAD $55,000-75,000
- Entry-level quantum engineers/developers: CAD $65,000-90,000
- Mid-level quantum scientists: CAD $95,000-140,000;
- Senior quantum researchers/principal scientists: CAD $150,000-220,000
- University faculty positions: Assistant professors CAD $90,000-120,000;
Salaries are lower than Toronto or US markets. The cost of living in Waterloo is more affordable, with strong benefits and flexible arrangements. You can learn more about Quantum Jobs and Salaries here.
How competitive is it to get a quantum job in Waterloo?
Positions at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) and Perimeter Institute are highly competitive. Many strong candidates are competing for postdoctoral and research roles.
Startups often underestimate the unfilled practical engineering roles when trying to attract candidates for difficult positions. Unadvertised researcher positions are common, particularly for those who network in their field or attend important seminars and workshops. It is common to find a postdoctorate or a contract, leading to a permanent position.
Can I work remotely for Waterloo-based quantum companies?
For hardware jobs and positions focused on experiments, you must work on-site. This is important for handling dilution refrigerators, quantum chips and accessing photonic systems in lab. You cannot conduct experiments remotely.
For software development, quantum algorithms, and theoretical work, hybrid and remote work arrangements are often possible. Thus, if remote flexibility is important, you should primarily target computational roles.
What's the best way to break into Waterloo's quantum job market?
Join IQC programs and seminars that are open to the public and can be attended online. For graduate studies at Waterloo, you will be able to directly connect with research and the industry.
Visibility can also be improved through conferences and open source contributions, as well as postdoctoral fellowships. To gain experience, look at university and institute job boards and start with contract work or roles at the early career level.
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