General/Other

Know the Basics

A catch-all category for diverse quantum roles that don't fit neatly into other boxes, including project managers, technical writers, sales engineers, patent lawyers, supply chain specialists, and quality assurance testers.

Quantum mechanics makes absolutely no sense. Roger Penrose (in context of quantum's counterintuitive nature)

What types of "other" quantum jobs exist?

• Project Managers: Coordinating quantum research teams and timelines.
• Recruiters: Finding talent for quantum companies.
• Lab Technicians: Maintaining quantum hardware and cryogenic systems.
• Technical Writers: Creating documentation for quantum software.
• Sales Engineers: Demonstrating quantum products to potential customers.
• Patent Lawyers: Protecting quantum intellectual property.

Do quantum roles require deep quantum expertise?

It depends on the specific role. Lab technicians need hands-on hardware knowledge; technical writers need enough understanding to document accurately; project managers need to grasp timelines and challenges but not necessarily the detailed physics. Generally, you need more quantum knowledge than a complete outsider but less than a quantum engineer or researcher.

How do I break into quantum from a non-technical background?

Start by learning quantum basics through free resources using no-cost options available like YouTube channels, tutorials offered by IBM Quantum, or reading "Quantum Computing for Everyone". Then build on your current competencies,  for instance, search for 'Quantum Project Manager' positions if your current role is Project Management, or look for quantum HR positions if you are in Human Resources. Many companies are looking for people who can integrate business processes with quantum frameworks. 

What's the salary range for these diverse quantum roles?

Salaries vary widely based on the specific role. Technical writers earn $70,000-110,000; project managers make $90,000-140,000, sales engineers can earn $100,000-160,000 (often with commission), and patent lawyers specializing in quantum can make $150,000-250,000+. Location, experience, and company size significantly impact these numbers.

Are "support roles" in quantum companies valuable career paths?

Of course! Every quantum leap is a team effort and every team needs a Director, Project Manager, and Recruiter. The supply chain manager who plans and procures the necessary materials for quantum chips is also critical. These complementary, and lateral support roles, are the key for stable, thriving careers in this domain and don’t require a PhD in Physics.

Can I switch between quantum job categories over time?

Yes, quantum careers are quite fluid! A technical writer can transition to a developer advocate role, a lab technician can shift to hardware engineering, a sales engineer can move to product management, and so on. The quantum industry is still young and growing, with lots of freedom to discover and adopt new roles.

Quantum computation is nothing less than a distinctly new way of harnessing nature. David Deutsch on quantum computing's fundamental innovation