Senior Manager, Quantum Model Validation

black.ai; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

black.ai is seeking a hands-on Technical Manager for their system architecture team in Palo Alto, California. This role involves leading the validation of quantum architectural models against hardware data and managing a team of architects. Ideal candidates will possess a PhD in quantum physics and have over 5 years of experience in quantum computing. The position offers a competitive salary range and equity benefits, with a strong emphasis on collaboration across technical teams.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant academic or industry research experience in quantum computing.
• Knowledge of linear optical quantum computing and error models.
• Experience with quantum optics experiments.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects on quantum optical system models and validate against quantum computing data.
• Manage a team providing real-time analysis of quantum hardware behavior.
• Coordinate with photonics, electronics, systems, and architecture teams.

Skills

Quantum optics

Quantum computing

Python programming

Collaborative tools (e.g., GitHub)

Education

PhD in quantum physics discipline

Job description

Job Summary

Our system architecture team sits at the interface of hardware development, manufacturing, and the quantum architecture to design the first fault‑tolerant quantum computer. We are looking for a hands‑on technical manager to lead the validation and closure of quantum architectural models against hardware system data – a vital activity in our progress towards this goal.

Responsibilities

• Lead and actively contribute to projects related to the development of quantum optical system models and their closure against real quantum computing system data.
• Manage and grow a team of architects providing real‑time analysis and feedback to engineering teams regarding quantum hardware behavior.
• Co‑ordinate closely with photonics, electronics, systems and architecture teams to ensure consistent, data‑driven descriptions of system architecture and performance are available.

Experience / Qualifications

• PhD in quantum physics discipline, quantum optics and photonics preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant academic or industry research experience in quantum computing or quantum information.
• Knowledge of linear optical quantum computing and its associated error models required.
• Experience performing or working in close collaboration with quantum optics experiments required.
• Ability to work across domains and collaborate effectively with multi‑disciplinary technical teams across sites & timezones.
• Experience programming in Python and competent use of collaborative software development tools (e.g., GitHub) is desirable.

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

Compensation

The ranges below reflect the target ranges for a new hire base salary. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future. Full‑time roles are eligible for equity and benefits.

U.S. Base Pay Range: $190,000 – $210,000 USD

Bay Area Pay Range: $210,000 – $240,000 USD