Quantum OS System Architect

Photonic Inc.; Coquitlam; On-site; CAD 176,000 - 278,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum technology firm in Coquitlam is seeking a Quantum OS System Architect to design and lead the development of high-performance quantum operating systems. The role involves defining specifications, optimizing performance across systems, and building robust APIs for effective communication. Candidates should possess a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field along with over 10 years of experience in embedded system design. Comprehensive benefits, stock options, and a competitive salary are part of the offer.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Comprehensive benefits

Stock options

Relocation assistance

Regular social events

Qualifications

• 10+ years in embedded system design and distributed system architecture.
• Experience in quantum computing or high-frequency trading is an asset.
• Familiarity with sub-microsecond time synchronization.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end design of a quantum operating system.
• Define architectural specifications for runtime control.
• Develop robust APIs for communication and control.

Skills

Embedded system design

Distributed system architecture

Quantum computing experience

High-performance computing

Systems programming (C, C++, Rust)

Real-time system design

FPGA hardware simulation/design tools

Education

Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science

Job description

Quantum OS System Architect

Department: Chief Quantum Office

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Compensation: The base annual salary range for this full-time role is between $176,000 to $278,000. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all Canadian locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Description

As a Quantum Runtime System Architect, you’ll work within the office of the Chief Quantum Officer to design the distributed hardware and software infrastructure that supports quantum circuits at runtime. Much like a classical operating system provides APIs to manage hardware and software interactions, you will architect a quantum operating system that controls qubit operations, resource scheduling, and system coordination to power Photonic's Entanglement First™ architecture.

Please include a cover letter with your resume (in one file) describing how you would be a great fit at Photonic and what attributes you could bring to our growing team.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO

• Architectural Leadership: Own the end-to-end design of a high-performance quantum operating system that manages distributed runtime control and resource allocation for quantum circuits.
• Quantum OS & Runtime Control Specifications: Define and drive the architectural specifications for the runtime control subsystem, integrating hardware (including FPGA and embedded systems) and software components.
• Interface & API Design: Develop robust, scalable interfaces that serve as the API layer between the embedded control system and its neighboring hardware and software, enabling efficient communication and control across the platform.
• Performance Optimization: Work across the breadth of Photonic's quantum compute stack to identify, model, and evaluate opportunities for long-term performance improvements.

WHAT YOU BRING TO OUR TEAM

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science.
• 10+ years in embedded system design and distributed system network architecture. Experience in quantum computing, high-performance computing, high-frequency trading, or particle physics is an asset.
• Experience with sub-microsecond time synchronization in distributed systems.
• Familiarity with real-time system design and RTOS environments.
• Broad expertise across the technology stack, including FPGA hardware simulation/design tools, systems programming (e.g., C, C++, Rust), and high-level languages (e.g., Python).
• A demonstrated ability to tackle complex technical challenges and innovate within rapidly evolving domains.

WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs that redefine computing.
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day.
• Inclusive company culture that values collaboration.
• Regular social events and fun activities keep our global team connected.
• Competitive compensation package including base salary, stock options, and relocation assistance for global talent.
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life, long term disability, an employee assistance program, parental leave top-ups, and a flexible spending account.

The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey. If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, please still apply! All roles listed are for current vacancies. While artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in reviewing applicant profiles, they do not determine candidate outcomes. Our hiring decisions are made by people, not algorithms. We are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams. If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.