Applied Scientist, Center for Quantum Computing

Description

Amazon’s Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is building the next generation of quantum computing hardware.

The Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) is our longest-horizon bet and operates at the intersection of hardware and physics. The goal is a quantum computer that could solve in hours what today's most robust machines would take thousands of years to compute, unlocking breakthroughs in myriad of areas ranging from advanced materials for batteries to cryptography and fundamentally-secure data sharing protocols. This program involves R&D in device theory, materials science, nano-scale fabrication, superconducting circuit design, cryogenic refrigeration, and quantum algorithms and applications.

Currently, the quantum hardware team is focused on improving the underlying chip fabrication of the quantum processor and the scaling of the control system needed to run large-scale quantum circuits. As part of this effort, the team is expanding its chip fabrication capabilities through the construction of a new cleanroom facility dedicated to superconducting quantum chip fabrication, and working with strategic partners to develop scaled versions of the control electronics, I/O wiring, and cryogenic refrigeratation needed for utility-scale quantum computers.

We operate with a startup-like pace inside one of the world's most capable technology organizations, combining the urgency of a competitive frontier with the resources and infrastructure of pan Amazon.

We are seeking an Applied Scientist III to join our team and drive the design, construction, and operation of quantum processors. You will work alongside world-class physicists and engineers to push the frontier of quantum computing — from laser system design and atom trapping to high-fidelity gate execution and quantum error correction. This is a rare opportunity to be part of shaping a technology that could define the next era of computing.

Key job responsibilities
- Design, build, and operate quantum computing experiments, including optical trapping arrays, laser cooling and state-preparation systems, and high-fidelity gate-driving optics

- Develop and optimize two-qubit entangling gates using interactions, targeting fidelities at or beyond the current state of the art (>99.5%)

- Implement and characterize erasure-detection protocols leveraging the metastable-state structure of ¹⁷¹Yb to achieve hardware-native erasure conversion rates >90%

- Contribute to quantum error correction experiments, including surface codes and quantum low-density parity-check (qLDPC) codes, and work toward demonstrating error suppression factors (Λ) well beyond current published records

- Design and improve atom-array loading, rearrangement, and continuous replenishment techniques to support registers of thousands to tens of thousands of atoms

- Develop control software and calibration routines for high-speed experimental sequences, including real-time feedback and adaptive protocols

- Analyze experimental data, build physical models to explain observed behavior, and propose and execute improvements to system performance

- Collaborate with theory, software, and hardware engineering teams to co-design quantum architectures, error-correcting codes, and decoder systems

- Publish results in leading scientific journals and present at top conferences to maintain Amazon's visibility in the quantum research community

Basic Qualifications

- 3+ years of building models for business application experience
- Experience in patents or publications at top-tier peer-reviewed conferences or journals
- Experience programming in Java, C++, Python or related language
- Experience in any of the following areas: algorithms and data structures, parsing, numerical optimization, data mining, parallel and distributed computing, high-performance computing

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience using Unix/Linux
- Experience in professional software development

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Los Angeles County applicants: Job duties for this position include: work safely and cooperatively with other employees, supervisors, and staff; adhere to standards of excellence despite stressful conditions; communicate effectively and respectfully with employees, supervisors, and staff to ensure exceptional customer service; and follow all federal, state, and local laws and Company policies. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness and professionalism, and safeguard business operations and the Company’s reputation. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits .

USA, CA, San Francisco - 171,600.00 - 222,200.00 USD annually