Quantum Computing Specialist – 12 Month FTC

Financial Conduct Authority; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 79,000 - 114,000; Full time

Job summary

A financial regulatory body in the UK seeks a Quantum Computing Specialist to explore cutting-edge technologies in financial regulation. The incumbent will drive innovative solutions that could transform regulatory practices. Responsibilities include working across teams to identify novel computational opportunities and developing expertise in quantum algorithms. Ideal candidates possess strong experience with quantum computing and a familiarity with financial services, offering an opportunity for those from academic backgrounds to transition into finance. The role supports hybrid working and offers a competitive salary.

Benefits

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Hybrid model with up to 60% remote work

Non-contributory pension (8-12% depending on age)

Private healthcare with Bupa

35 hours of paid volunteering annually

Qualifications

• Proven experience working with quantum computers.
• Familiarity with financial services or regulatory tools.
• Strong collaboration skills in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Drive FCA’s exploration of quantum computing.
• Uncover problems where novel computational methods can help.
• Develop technical capability within the Emerging Tech team.

Skills

Quantum computing experience

Financial services familiarity

Research and communication skills

Job description

Quantum Computing Specialist – 12 Month FTC

Division: Data, Technology & Innovation Department: Emerging Tech & Research

• Salary: National (Edinburgh and Leeds) ranging from £72,100 to £102,100 and London from £79,300 to £113,200 (salary offered will be based on skills and experience)
• This role is graded as: Technical Specialist - Regulatory
• Your recruitment contact is Sonika Suryadevara via [e-mail] . Applications must be submitted through our online portal. Applications sent via social media or email will not be accepted.

About the FCA and team

We regulate financial services firms in the UK, to keep financial markets fair, thriving and effective. By joining us, you’ll play a key part in protecting consumers, driving economic growth and shaping the future of UK finance services.

The Data, Technology and Innovation (DTI) division enables the FCA to be a digital-first, data-led smart regulator by delivering a secure, agile and cost-effective technology and data ecosystem that drives better decisions, transparency and operational efficiency.

Sitting within DTI, the Strategy & Architecture team supports enabling the FCA Strategy through strategic advice, partnership with stakeholders and targeted research into emerging technologies, aligned with overall Enterprise Architecture.

Role responsibilities

• Join the team driving the FCA’s exploration of quantum computing, identifying high-impact opportunities and testing proofs of concept that could reshape how financial regulation is delivered
• Work across the FCA to uncover problems where novel computational methods could offer powerful new solutions
• Advance the FCA’s technical capability by developing expertise within the Emerging Tech & Research team, combining quantum insight with deep understanding of the and regulatory or financial regulatory landscape
• Opportunity for candidates from an academic background to transition into financial services as the sector continues to explore the early adoption of quantum computing
• Work on cutting-edge challenges by turning complex regulatory and financial problems into quantum-based models, testing proofs of concept that could redefine how regulation is delivered
• Collaborate across disciplines, shape the regulatory use of technology while joining a diverse, curious team committed to collaboration and continuous learning

Skills required

Minimum

• Proven Experience working with quantum computers, including translating business use cases into quantum algorithms, code and applications
• Experience in financial services or familiarity with regulatory priorities, tools and powers, research, or industry collaborations (e.g., postdoctoral or master’s projects) is highly valued. However, we also welcome candidates who demonstrate a strong interest and willingness to learn in these areas.
• Proven Experience in research, communication and relationship-building within fast-paced environments, with strong skills to collaborate across technical and business teams

Essential

• Maintain deep knowledge of quantum algorithms and their potential application in different contexts including financial services, staying ahead of emerging trends and familiarity with quantum hardware is a bonus
• Lead complex, non-linear research projects to high standards, plan and facilitate workshops and convert intricate findings into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiencesBuild strong stakeholder relationships across all levels, flex communication style to influence and gain consensus, foster collaboration and demonstrate leadership qualities to create an inclusive, outcome-focused team culture

Benefits

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Hybrid model with up to 60% remote work
• Non-contributory pension (8–12% depending on age) and life assurance at eight times your salary
• Private healthcare with Bupa, income protection and 24/7 Employee Assistance
• 35 hours of paid volunteering annually
• A flexible benefits scheme designed around your lifestyle

For a full list of our benefits and our recruitment process as a whole visit our benefits page.

Our values and culture

Our colleagues are the key to our success as a regulator. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture: one that’s free from discrimination and bias, celebrates difference and supports colleagues to deliver at their best. We believe that our differences and similarities enable us to be a better organisation – one that makes better decisions, drives innovation and delivers better regulation.

If you require any adjustments due to a disability or condition, your recruiter is here to help - reach out for tailored support.

We welcome diverse working styles and aim to find flexible solutions that suit both the role and individual needs, including options like part-time and job sharing where applicable.

Disability Confident: our hiring approach

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and therefore, people or individuals with disabilities and long-term conditions who best meet the minimum criteria for a role will go through to the next stage of the recruitment process. In cases of high application volumes, we may progress applicants whose experience most closely matches the role’s key requirements.

Useful information and timeline

• Advert closing: Midnight 26th January (please apply by 11.59pm 25th January)
• Shortlisting calls: w/c 02 February
• First Interview: w/c 09 February
• Second Interview: w/c 16 February
• Your Recruiter will discuss the process in detail with you during screening for the role, therefore, please make them aware if you are going to be unavailable for any date during this time.