Infrastructure & Technology Quantum algorithm developer Professional Cambridge, US

IBM; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 102,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Paid family medical leave

Disability benefits

Job summary

IBM in Cambridge, Massachusetts is looking for a Quantum Algorithms Engineer to lead the design of efficient quantum algorithms suited for fault-tolerant quantum computers. This role requires strong research experience and education focused on quantum theory and algorithms.

The ideal candidate should possess a Doctorate Degree and demonstrate a track record in theoretical research and a solid foundation in quantum information theory. Join a collaborative environment where you can contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of quantum computing.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated research experience in the design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• A track record of independent theoretical research, evidenced by original contributions to the field.
• Solid foundation in quantum information theory, computational complexity, and linear algebra.
• Proficiency in at least one general-purpose programming language.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects on novel quantum algorithms for fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Characterize quantum speed-ups relative to classical methods.
• Collaborate to refine algorithms for quantum architectures.
• Disseminate findings through publications and presentations.
• Engage with academic collaborators in quantum algorithms research.

Skills

Research experience in quantum algorithms

Theoretical research contributions

Quantum information theory

Linear algebra

Programming (general-purpose)

Education

Doctorate Degree

Job description

At IBM Research, we are the innovation engine of IBM. Exploring what’s next in computing and shaping the technologies the world will rely on tomorrow. From advancing AI and hybrid cloud to pioneering practical quantum computing, we anticipate challenges and unlock new opportunities for clients, partners, and society. Working in Research means joining a team that accelerates discovery at the intersection of high-performance computing, AI, quantum, and cloud. You’ll collaborate with leading scientists, engineers, and visionaries to push boundaries and turn ideas into reality. With a culture built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, IBM Research offers the opportunity to grow your career while contributing to breakthroughs that transform industries and change the world.

Your role and responsibilities

• Lead projects on the design of novel and efficient quantum algorithms for practically useful problems, with a focus on implementations suited to fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Rigorously characterize quantum speed-ups using tools from computational complexity theory and through careful comparison with state-of-the-art classical methods.
• Collaborate with our compiler, error-correction, and hardware research teams to refine and optimize algorithms for early fault-tolerant quantum architectures.
• Disseminate your findings through publications in leading peer-reviewed journals and presentations at premier scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the broader research community by engaging with academic collaborators and helping to shape the intellectual direction of quantum algorithms research.

Required education

Doctorate Degree

Preferred education

Doctorate Degree

Required technical and professional expertise

• Demonstrated research experience in the design and analysis of quantum algorithms.
• A track record of independent theoretical research, evidenced by original contributions to the field.
• Solid foundation in quantum information theory, computational complexity, and linear algebra.
• Proficiency in at least one general-purpose programming language.

Preferred technical and professional experience

• Experience mentoring students and postdocs.
• Experience leading projects with junior team members.
• Strong publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and top-tier conference proceedings.
• Experience serving on technical program committees or as a reviewer for reputable conferences and journals in quantum computing or theoretical computer science.
• Postdoctoral research experience or completion of a graduate program with substantial focus on quantum algorithms, quantum complexity theory, or related areas.

OTHER RELEVANT JOB DETAILS

Supplemental 1 employees may be eligible for up to 8 paid holidays, a minimum of 56 hours paid sick time and the IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan. IBM offers paid family medical leave and disability benefits to eligible employees where required by applicable law.

This position was posted on the date cited in the key job details section and is anticipated to remain posted for 15 days from this date or less if not needed to fill the role.

We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable law.

IBM will not be providing visa sponsorship for this position now or in the future. Therefore, in order to be considered for this position, you must have the ability to work without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.

The compensation range and benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year. The salary will vary depending on your job-related skills, experience and location. Pay increment and frequency of pay will be in accordance with employment classification and applicable laws. For part time roles, your compensation and benefits will be adjusted to reflect your hours. Benefits may be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.

Job Title

quantum algorithms Engineer

Date posted

19-Jun-2026

Job ID

120562

City / Township / Village

Cambridge

State / Province

Massachusetts

Country

United States

Work arrangement

Hybrid

Area of work

Infrastructure & Technology

Employment type

Supplemental 1 (Fixed Term - Short)

Contract type

Fixed Term - Short Term

Projected Minimum Salary per year

102,000.00

Projected Maximum Salary per year

240,000.00

Position type

Professional

No Travel

Company

(0147) International Business Machines Corporation

Shift

General (daytime)

Is this role a commissionable/sales incentive based position?

IBM is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, or other characteristics protected by the applicable law. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.