Senior Technical Program Manager

D-Wave Quantum Inc.; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 101,000 - 153,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum computing company in Burnaby is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to oversee the planning and execution of quantum computer systems. Responsibilities include coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing project documentation, and ensuring system lifecycle activities. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, 4-7 years of experience in technical program management, and strong leadership skills. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for growth within an innovative environment.

Benefits

Company ownership

Competitive pay

Meaningful benefits

Qualifications

• 4-7 years of experience managing complex technical programs.
• Proven ability to estimate effort and build detailed project plans.
• Experience with quantum computing or advanced technologies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and execute quantum computer system deployments.
• Coordinate and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
• Provide clear visibility and communication through regular updates.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional teamwork

Risk management

Communication skills

Technical documentation

Detail-oriented

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical preferred)

Tools

Jira

Confluence

MS Project

Smartsheet

Job description

About the role

D-Wave is seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager. You will lead the planning, execution, and lifecycle management of our quantum computer systems. You will coordinate multidisciplinary teams across cryogenics, mechanical, electrical, software, network operations, and facilities to ensure successful installation, commissioning, maintenance, and long-term operation of complex, mission-critical systems.

This role owns schedules, risk management, system change control, and operational visibility across deployed quantum systems. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy in a high-uncertainty environment, translating complex technical work into structured, reliable execution while maintaining alignment with engineering, operations, and business stakeholders.

What you'll do

• Plan, lead, and execute quantum computer system deployments, including site readiness, logistics, installation, commissioning, and operational handover
• Own ongoing system lifecycle activities, including maintenance, upgrades, and system modifications, ensuring minimal downtime and operational risk
• Drive program execution by defining scope, schedules, dependencies, and milestones; make realistic commitments and adjust plans as conditions evolve
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical and operational risks, escalating issues proactively and driving resolution across teams
• Coordinate and influence cross-functional teams spanning mechanical engineering, cryogenics, electrical/electronic systems, software, networking, and facilities without direct authority
• Own project documentation and configuration management, ensuring system changes are reviewed, approved, documented, and fully traceable over the system lifecycle
• Serve as the primary coordination point between internal engineering and operations teams, external vendors, service providers, and site stakeholders
• Support incident response and recovery, coordinating troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Provide clear visibility and communication through regular status updates, operational documentation, service reports, and executive-level summaries
• Conduct post-project and post-incident reviews, identifying lessons learned, process improvements, and best practices to improve future execution

About you

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical preferred) or equivalent practical experience
• 4–7 years of experience managing complex technical programs, hardware systems, installations, or field-deployed infrastructure (less experience may be considered with directly relevant domain expertise, such as quantum or advanced scientific systems)
• PMP or equivalent certification is a plus, but not required
• Proven ability to estimate effort, build and manage detailed project plans, and deliver programs on time while balancing technical risk and operational constraints
• Strong judgment in ambiguous environments, with the ability to independently research, evaluate options, and recommend solutions
• Demonstrated success working cross-functionally and influencing stakeholders without formal authority
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation, reports, and executive presentations
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and a systems-level mindset
• Experience with project tracking and documentation tools such as Jira, Confluence, MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent
• Willingness to travel internationally up to 20%
• Experience with quantum computing, high-performance computing, or other advanced technologies
• Experience managing programs that include software, research, and customer delivery components
• Professional certifications or training in one or more of: Agile/Scrum, Risk Management, or Compliance
• Experience mentoring or leading other project/program managers

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.

During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

Inclusion

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

The Fine Print

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.

The base pay range for this role is:

$101,600 - $152,400 CAD per year (Burnaby)