Sr. Software Engineer, Back-end

Job Description

Job Title: Sr. Software Engineer, Back-end. Location: Los Angeles, CA, USA

You will design scalable, high-performance backend systems, working with top researchers & engineers to transform quantum research into reliable, commercial products used across defense, industry, and research sectors.

Duties:

• Design, build, and optimize scalable backend services written in Python to support quantum technologies.
• Maintain and enhance the compiler stack that translates OpenQASM3 and OpenPulse programs into low-level control instructions for QPUs.
• Collaborate with research and engineering teams to bring experimental quantum programs into production-ready systems;
• Validate compiler performance and controller behavior through experiments on quantum hardware.
• Implement and optimize APIs using gRPC, GraphQL, or REST to improve service-to-service communication.
• Mentor junior developers and uphold strong software engineering practices, including testing and documentation.
• Help define the architecture, tools, and best practices for Q-CTRL’s backend infrastructure;
• Partner with product, frontend, and infrastructure teams to deliver integrated and scalable software solutions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 3 or more years of experience in backend software development using Python.
• Experience with version control systems and collaborative software development.
• Ability to write maintainable and testable production code;
• Understanding of quantum hardware control systems or pulse-level programming such as Qiskit Pulse or Qua.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with experience mentoring others.
• Knowledge of compiler design, distributed systems, or microservices is an advantage;
• Experience with APIs (gRPC, GraphQL, REST), cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure), or frameworks like Django and FastAPI is preferred.
• Familiarity with C++ or Rust extensions, FPGA programming, or superconducting qubit systems is a plus.

Benefits and Instructions:

• Base salary range: $135,000–$210,000, based on experience, role level, and location.
• Eligible for performance-based bonuses, equity, and other benefits;
• Access to comprehensive health and career benefits.
• Opportunity to work in a hybrid setup from the Los Angeles office;
• Q-CTRL offers a global, fast-paced environment, turning advanced quantum science into real-world applications.