Experimental Physicist II (Scalable Gate Model Processors)

D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS) , D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our quantum computers — the world’s largest — feature QPUs with sub-second response times and can be deployed on-premises or accessed through our quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our quantum systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow:

About the Role

We are looking for a creative, energetic, and self‑motivated Experimental Physicist to join our Processor Development (PD) team. In this challenging and exciting role, you will contribute to the development of superconducting gate‑model quantum processors, with a focus on long‑term scalability. You will leverage your expertise in gate‑model quantum computation as well as D‑Wave’s extensive experience in developing large‑scale superconducting integrated circuit control, and you will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team including superconducting circuit designers, fabrication engineers, software developers, physicists, and engineers to push the boundaries of quantum computing.

What You’ll Do

• Contribute to the conceptualization and design of scalable multi‑qubit superconducting quantum processors.
• Develop and run experiments, analysis routines, and quantitative models to characterize parameters and performance of as‑fabricated superconducting quantum processors.
• Perform coherence measurements (T1, T2, Ramsey, echo, noise spectroscopy) to identify decoherence mechanisms and use those data to guide improvements in device design, control, fabrication, and cryogenic infrastructure.
• Develop, calibrate, and validate high‑fidelity single qubit and two qubit gates, plus reset and readout, using standard benchmarking protocols.
• Diagnose scaling limitations in control, calibration, readout, and noise and develop methods to improve or circumvent these limitations.
• Collaborate with designers on device parameter studies and simulations and help define measurement primitives and requirements for improved processor performance.
• Share your results and ideas with the broader PD team through regular and clear documentation.
• Create and contribute to our software infrastructure for modeling, calibrating and operating qubits and processors.

About You

• Ph.D. or M.Sc. in quantum computing or a related experimental field, or equivalent academic or industrial research experience.
• Experience with measurement and control of qubits using microwave techniques or other closely related quantum control topics and methods.
• Strong critical thinking and technical problem‑solving skills.
• Skill in independent research and evidence of deep understanding in your area of expertise.
• Ability to learn new technical topics quickly and effectively.
• Strong software development experience for experimental automation, data acquisition, and data analysis, with willingness to learn new languages and tools as needed.
• A collaborative mindset, a demonstrated ability to work effectively on an interdisciplinary team, and a strong commitment to the company’s success.
• Excellent communication skills and experience with summarizing technical information for a broad audience.
• Ability and willingness to adapt to shifting priorities in a time‑sensitive environment.

Exceptional Candidates Will Have

• A solid background in one or more of the following: quantum control of superconducting devices, superconducting device fabrication, RF or microwave engineering, and low‑noise electronics.
• Experience calibrating and characterizing superconducting qubits.
• Familiarity with methods to achieve low crosstalk in superconducting circuits by design and to implement scalable and robust two‑qubit coupling schemes.
• Experience with version control and collaborative software development environments.

A D‑Waver’s DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of view. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy Is Simple But Powerful

We believe providing D‑Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.

During the Interview Process, Your Recruiter Will Review Our Total Rewards (Base, Equity, Bonus, Perks, Benefits, Culture) Offerings

The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

Inclusion

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D‑Wave.

The Fine Print

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted.

It is D‑Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.

The Base Pay Range For This Role Is

118,000 - 162,000 CAD per year (Burnaby)