Quantum Engineer, Gate Calibration

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Quantum Engineer, Gate Calibration. Location: Berkeley, California, USA

Responsibilities:

• Lead experiments to characterize, calibrate, and optimize two-qubit gates on tunable-coupler devices, from individual qubit pairs to full-processor deployment.

• Identify gate-error sources, including coherent control errors, decoherence, leakage, crosstalk, and two-level system (TLS) interactions, using targeted experiments, benchmarking, and simulation;

• Develop and improve calibration methods using optimal pulse shaping, dynamical decoupling, and other error suppression strategies, emphasizing robustness and automation at scale.

• Improve metrology for full-processor Hamiltonian and characteristic extraction, correlate findings with gate performance, and provide actionable feedback to device design, fabrication, and control hardware teams.

• Prepare new quantum devices for internal applications teams and external deployment.

• Stay current with scientific literature and implement state-of-the-art techniques on production hardware.

• Publish high-quality research findings that advance superconducting quantum computing.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• Significant hands-on experience calibrating and characterizing two-qubit gates on superconducting quantum devices. Experience with tunable couplers is strongly preferred.

• Deep understanding of gate design, pulse engineering, and decoherence mechanisms, with demonstrated success connecting error diagnostics to measurable improvements in gate fidelity.

• Ability to independently execute complex experimental projects from initial concept to validated results.

• Strong Python skills in a scientific context and experience building reliable tools for other users;

• Strong experimental problem-solving skills and the ability to balance detailed investigations with rapid iteration.

• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Preferred:

• Experience with quantum simulation frameworks such as QuTiP for gate and noise modeling.

• Experience deploying calibration or benchmarking procedures across large multi-qubit processors in an industrial or startup environment.

• Familiarity with randomized benchmarking variants, gate set tomography, cycle benchmarking, or other scalable error diagnostics.

• Publications or demonstrated results in high-fidelity entangling gates, error suppression, or quantum control.

• Experience mentoring junior scientists or leading small technical teams.

Benefits and compensation:

• Base salary of $175,000 to $200,000 per year.

• Equity.

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.

• 401(k) plan.

• Paid parental leave.

• Rejuvenation days.

• Vacation policy aligned with local regulations and industry standards.

Additional information:

• Final compensation depends on relevant experience, skills, and geographic location;

• Rigetti is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, minorities, and underrepresented groups are encouraged.

• AI tools may assist with application reviews, resume analysis, and verification of application materials. Final hiring decisions are made by humans.

• For more information about the company, visit Rigetti Computing.