Quantum OS System Architect

Photonic Inc.; Coquitlam; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum technology startup in Metro Vancouver is seeking a Quantum Runtime System Architect to design and manage a high-performance quantum operating system. The candidate should have a Master's or PhD, along with significant experience in embedded system design and distributed system architecture. Enjoy a competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for innovation in quantum computing.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits including life insurance

Flexible spending account

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Embedded system design

Distributed system network architecture

Quantum computing

API design

Performance optimization

Education

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

Tools

C

C++

Rust

Python

Job description

Job Description

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. Similar to a classical operating system providing 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 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

• Get involved with a quantum startup company set to redefine computing.
• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies.
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day.
• Inclusive company culture.
• Competitive salary, benefits (including life insurance, extended health, dental, long-term disability, and a flexible spending account), and potential upside.

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 might not meet all the requirements, please still apply! 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 inspire innovation and build better teams. If any accommodations are needed during our hiring process, please let us know.