Software Engineering Manager - Platform

Your mission

As Software Engineering Manager – SaaS &Platform at planqc, you will lead and support a growing team of software engineers working at the interface between customers, industry, and our quantum computers. You will ensure their personal growth, technical excellence, and delivery impact. In close collaboration with senior leadership and cross‑functional teams, you will align technical execution with company strategy and product priorities, while fostering a healthy and collaborative engineering culture.

Key responsibilities

People Management

• Lead and support a team of engineers.
• Run regular 1:1s, mentoring, and career development conversations.
• Provide performance feedback and conduct evaluations.
• Hire, onboard, and retain top engineering talent.
• Foster a healthy, diverse, and collaborative team culture.

Technical & Project Management

• Drive execution through planning, prioritization, and delivery monitoring.
• Align team goals with company and product priorities.
• Ensure engineering quality standards (testing, reviews, documentation).
• Facilitate design discussions and guide technical decisions.
• Coordinate cross‑team dependencies and proactively remove blockers.
• Communicate progress, risks, and needs to senior leadership.
• Support preparation and submission of new project and funding applications.

Your profile

Necessary requirements

• 3–5 years of experience in engineering leadership, or strong track record as senior engineer with team coordination experience.
• Solid technical background in software engineering, cloud technologies, and software architecture.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with proven ability to build trust and motivate teams.
• Experience with project management practices and agile workflows.
• Fluent in English and German (spoken and written).
• Valid work permit for Germany or the EU.
• Passion for quantum technologies and building groundbreaking products.

Supplementary skills

• Background in cloud systems, distributed systems, or HPC.
• Prior experience in a startup or research‑driven environment.
• Experience working with funding applications or R&D projects.

Why us?

planqc, founded in 2022 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is a pioneering quantum computing startup based in Garching near Munich. We specialize in developing highly scalable neutral‑atom quantum computers, utilizing individual atoms as qubits.

• Cutting‑Edge Innovation: At planqc, you’ll work with state‑of‑the‑art technology, using individual atoms as qubits to build highly scalable quantum computers. Our unique approach combines precision from the world’s best atomic clocks, quantum gas microscopes, and high‑speed Rydberg gates. Together, we’re creating the fastest path to industry‑relevant quantum advantage.
• Impactful Projects: Join us as we develop groundbreaking quantum systems and software, including a 1,000‑qubit computer for the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ), a bespoke quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and quantum algorithms for several DLR projects.
• Empowered by Excellence: With notable advisors and board members like Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM) and Professor Ann‑Kristin Achleitner, we’re guided by exceptional leadership. Our Series A funding of €50 million allows us to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
• Dynamic Work Culture: We value innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team of around 50 brilliant minds works from locations in Garching, Ulm, and Innsbruck, fostering an environment where creativity meets ambition.
• Recognition and Growth: planqc’s achievements are celebrated globally. From winning the German Startup Award in 2023 to being named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2024, you’ll be part of a company that’s making history.
• Work‑Life Synergy: Whether it’s through team events, after‑work socials, or opportunities to attend quantum conferences worldwide, you’ll find a supportive community that values both your professional and personal growth.