Lead QPU Design Engineer

Quantum Motion

ABOUT THE ROLE AND TEAM As a Staff/Senior QPU Layout Engineer, you will drive the physical implementation and verification for a cutting-edge quantum processor platform. You’ll be a go-to expert for full-chip and block-level layouts, ensuring designs are reliable, manufacturable, and ready for tapeout.  You will be hands-on with layout while also contributing to the transition from research prototypes to production using industry-standard semiconductor tools and processes.You should enjoy solving problems with solutions flexible to changing rules while maintaining engineering discipline. The role involves collaborating closely with experimentalists, device modellers, and designers, bridging research and industry-standard approaches. It is not a conventional IC layout role: our process is bespoke and evolving, requiring flexibility and strong problem-solving. However, it’s grounded in industrial tools and practices and thus best suited to those with a strong industry foundation.  OUR TEAM Since 2021 our team has been listed every year in the “Top 100 Startups worth watching” in the EE Times in 2021 and 2022, and our technology breakthroughs have been featured in The Telegraph, BBC and the New Statesman. Our founders are internationally renowned researchers from UCL and Oxford University who have pioneered the development of qubits and quantum computing architectures. Our chairman is the co-founder of Cadence and Synopsys, the two leading companies in the area of Electronic Design Automation. We’re backed by a team of top-tier investors, and we have recently closed our Series C funding of $160 million.   We bring together the brightest quantum engineers, integrated circuit (IC) engineers, quantum computing theoreticians and software engineers to create a unique, world-leading team, working together closely to maximise our combined expertise. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary culture is an ideal fit for anyone who thrives in a cutting-edge research and development environment focused on tackling big challenges and contributing to the development of scalable quantum computers based on silicon technology.   Our team of 100+ is based across London, Oxford, San Sebastián and Sydney, with our primary hub in Islington (London). FUNCTIONS OF THE ROLE * Implement block-level and chip-level physical layouts for spin qubits in SiMOS quantum dots from concept through integration and tapeout using standard EDA tools. * Drive layout work to completion using industry best practices to ensure manufacturability and scalability. * Deliver layouts that meet agreed physical verification and sign-off criteria, and own tapeout readiness. * Interpret EM analysis, adjusting layouts to meet reliability and integration goals. * Create or adapt minimal schematics or netlists to support LVS and verification flows. * Contribute to the definition and maintenance of PDKs, layout methodologies, conventions, and abstractions. * Lead design reviews, tapeout planning, and technical documentation. * Coach or manage layout engineers as the team grows. * Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, translating research intent into manufacturable layouts. EXPERIENCE - ESSENTIALS * Masters in Engineering, Physics, or related field, or equivalent professional experience. * 6+ years leading chip layouts through tapeout in research-driven or novel technology environments. * Strong proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso for full-chip and block-level layout and verification flows. * Strong understanding of layout verification (DRC/LVS/ERC) using Calibre or equivalent. * Experience interpreting EM simulation results to optimise layout for signal integrity and reliability. * Proven ability to execute layouts evolving process nodes where formal design rules are incomplete and engineering judgment drives signoff decisions. * Track record of effective cross-functional collaboration across disciplines and domains. EXPERIENCE - DESIRABLE * Experience with quantum devices, CMOS process integration, and/or 3D integration. * Experience developing PDKs, rule decks, or working closely with EDA teams. * Scripting or automation experience (SKILL, Python, or similar). * Experience managing a small team of layout engineers. BENEFITS * Be part of a creative, world-leading team * Competitive salary and share options scheme * Contributory pension scheme * Group private medical insurance scheme * Life Assurance EEO STATEMENT Quantum Motion is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate based on age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, colour, religion, disability status, marital status, pregnancy, gender reassignment or any other protected characteristics covered by the Equality Act 2010.

QuantWare

ABOUT US QuantWare is building the world’s most powerful quantum processors to solve humanity's greatest challenges. We do this with our unique VIO™ technology, the only QPU architecture that breaks the hardware barriers that have held quantum computing back, unlocking the path to MegaQubit quantum processors. With VIO, we are paving the way for the hyper-scale quantum computers that will change the world. And delivering on that vision demands people who don’t shy away from tackling the hardest challenges of our time. That’s where you come in! As a Quantum Design Engineer in our R&D team, you’ll be at the heart of advancing the performance and scalability of superconducting quantum processors. You’ll lead the design of next-generation qubit chips and modular, scalable QPU architecture, working from on-chip subsystem architecture to EM simulations, frequency allocation, crosstalk management, packaging, and interconnect strategies. You’ll also design and optimise nonreciprocal superconducting circuits, such as isolators and parametric amplifiers that will drive robust, high-fidelity readout chains. These designs will enhance readout signal-to-noise ratio and stability, feeding into our next-gen readout modules and ensuring seamless coupling with the qubit layer. This role is highly collaborative: you’ll work in a tight feedback loop with experimentalists and device engineers to transform measurement insights into rapid design iterations, pushing performance, coherence, yield, and manufacturability across the full qubit stack. WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING * Design and simulate cutting-edge quantum hardware to improve performance, coherence, and scalability. * Develop high-performance, manufacturable device architectures that accelerate R&D cycles and increase qubit fidelity and yield. * Architect and optimize the layout of nonreciprocal superconducting circuits such as parametric amplifiers, targeting robust performance under cryogenic conditions. * Interpret simulation results and correlate with experimental data to guide iterative design improvements. * Collaborate across teams to ensure rapid design-to-test cycles, connecting theory with experiment. * Automate the design pipeline using Python, enabling parametric device generation, simulation sweeps, and data post-processing. YOUR PROFILE * MSc in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field, with 2+ years of industry experience or a PhD with relevant hands-on work * Strong Python skills for automating designs, controlling simulations, and analyzing data * Experience with EM simulation and chip design tools (e.g. Ansys HFSS-Q3D, KLayout); Git and Qiskit-Metal familiarity is a plus * Knowledge of cQED devices and superconducting circuit design is a strong advantage * Experience designing nonreciprocal superconducting circuits (e.g. parametric amplifiers) or advanced readout techniques is highly valued * Solid grasp of microwave engineering, quantum noise sources, and fabrication methods Don't tick every box? Apply anyway. We know great candidates don't always follow a straight path, and we value diverse experience, perspectives, and ways of thinking. If this role excites you and you believe you can make an impact, we'd love to hear from you! What We Offer: At QuantWare, you’ll be part of a high-performing team of world-class experts in an ambitious, fast-moving environment. From day one, you’ll have the trust, tools, and support to do your best work. Here’s what you can expect: Competitive salary - A salary that reflects the impact and importance of the role (and of course 8% holiday allowance) Pension that’s built to last - A generous and future-proof pension plan that includes partner and dependent coverage. Flexibility built on trust - We focus on outcomes. Work flexibly, in a hybrid setup, with an open vacation policy that lets you manage your time Personal growth - We invest in your L&D, with a budget available to each team member, dependent on their individual ambitions, development needs, and performance A connected team - We make space to celebrate wins together, with team events, offsites, and spontaneous moments that bring us closer Diversity & Inclusion at QuantWare We’re an ambitious company, not only for our goals but also to become an even more diverse and inclusive team. We know this helps us with better decisions, more innovation, and strengthens our culture. In particular, we’d love to see more women in the quantum industry! So if you’re a female talent, excited about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. As part of our recruitment process, candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening.

Quantum Motion

ABOUT THE ROLE AND TEAM The Quantum Hardware Team specializes in designing, validating and operating quantum processors based on silicon industrial technology. As a Lead Quantum Engineer, you will be the cornerstone of Quantum Motion’s first physical presence in the US, building our visibility in the North American market. You will take charge of a state-of-the-art, growing lab, overseeing the build-out of our Maryland facilities whilst guiding the experimental validation of our full stack quantum computers.  This role is a unique blend of high-level technical execution and strategic representation. You will bridge the gap between internal research and the broader US quantum landscape, acting as a primary interface with government bodies, funding agencies, playing a vital role in building our visibility and presence in one of the US' leading Quantum ecosystems. OUR TEAM This role forms part of our investment in state-of-the art facilities in Maryland, US. It reflects our commitment to driving innovation and collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the quantum industry, and additionally taps into the strong semiconductor and cryogenic ecosystem. Our mission is global and this is a rare and exciting opportunity to join a team which is shaping the future of quantum computing.     As part of our lean, high-impact and rapidly growing team, you will be working closely with our scientists, engineers and experts in a dynamic environment to make the site run smoothly and compliantly from day one, dedicated to contributing to the development of scalable quantum computers based on silicon technology. FUNCTIONS OF THE ROLE Strategic Leadership * Build and Scale: Lead the establishment and the operational growth of the US lab, ensuring it serves as a flagship facility for silicon-based quantum hardware  * Technical Roadmap: Translate company goals into actionable US-based experimental milestones, guiding the team from initial characterization into full-stack validation * External Representation: Act as the primary technical representative for Quantum Motion in the US. You will manage relationships with government funding bodies and agencies, and represent the lab in professional and public forums.  * Ecosystem Integration: Actively participate in the Maryland/DC quantum ecosystem, fostering collaborations and ensuring QM remains at the forefront of US semiconductor and cryogenic innovation.  * Talent Leadership: Identify technical gaps and lead the hiring process to build a high-performing, multidisciplinary US research team.  Technical Direction * Experimental Oversight: Provide high-level technical input and guidance for ongoing research initiatives and experimental work * QPU Design & Validation: Lead the validation of prototypes and components, utilizing data-driven insights to pivot technical strategies as necessary  * Protocol Development: Oversee the implementation of protocols for high-fidelity quantum logic operations on industrial-grade silicon chips * Innovation & IP: Lead patenting activities for your strategic area and contribute to major funding grant applications EXPERIENCE - ESSENTIALS * PhD degree in physics, chemistry, or engineering                     * Proven track record of leadership in dynamical characterization and control of spin qubits in solid-state systems  * Experience in defining research goals and leading teams toward successful technical outcomes                      * Familiar with the use of high-frequency electronics         * Knowledge of quantum information systems and operations * Ability to independently design and carry out complex experiments; perform data analysis and preparation of technical reports and presentations                 * Knowledge of data acquisition software (Python, Matlab)                     * Ability to lead and motivate a team * Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical strategies to stakeholders, write grant applications, and author technical reports EXPERIENCE - DESIRABLE * Experience with the use of deep cryogenic measurement systems                 * Experience with the dynamical characterization of silicon-based nanoelectronic devices * Knowledge and experience in nanofabrication                     * Ability to supervise research students BENEFITS * Be part of a creative, world-leading team * Competitive salary and share options scheme * Region-specific benefits (e.g. Health Insurance) * Choose your own laptop/kit  * Flexible working * Located in Maryland College Park - a state-of-the-art quantum hub  EEO STATEMENT Quantum Motion is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.