Applied Scientist, Quantum error correction team, Amazon Center for Quantum Computing

Application deadline: Sep 25, 2026 The Amazon Center for Quantum Computing (CQC) in Pasadena, CA, is looking to hire an Applied Scientist in the Quantum Error Correction Theory Team. You will be joining a multi-disciplinary team of scientists working at the forefront of quantum computing. The ideal candidate should posses comprehensive knowledge of quantum fault tolerance theory, including: - Topological, concatenated and low density parity check codes - Quantum decoding algorithms - Fault-tolerant logical protocols You will contribute to developing hardware-aware fault-tolerant protocols and software tools for performance analysis under realistic noise models, helping guide our organization toward delivering a fault-tolerant quantum computer. Key job responsibilities - Design and evaluate novel quantum error correction schemes, including new codes and fault-tolerant protocols - Research and develop hardware-optimized architectures for fault-tolerant computing - Drive experimental implementations of quantum fault-tolerance - Develop simulation and modeling software tools - Lead high-impact, collaborative research projects aligned with our engineering roadmap - Apply strong engineering principles while maintaining scientific rigor A day in the life Based in Pasadena, CA, you'll work in our purpose-built facility, designed for quantum computing research and development, adjacent to Caltech's campus. As an applied scientist in the quantum error correction team, you will: - Drive independent research while collaborating on fault tolerance projects within our architecture - Stay abreadth with current developments in the active field of fault-tolerance through joint Caltech seminars and conference participation - Partner with experimental scientists to enhance logical performance of quantum processors in a unique opportunity to bridge theory and experiment - Design error correction schemes optimized for specific quantum algorithms - Collaborate with control stack engineers to enable increasingly sophisticated fault-tolerance experiments - Work with systems engineers to identify, understand, and model technical requirements - Contribute to regular team discussions and joint planning sessions About the team Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a U.S export license. 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Our employee-led and company-sponsored affinity groups promote inclusion and empower our people to take pride in what makes us unique. Our inclusion events foster stronger, more collaborative teams. Our continual innovation is fueled by the bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and passionate voices our teams bring to everything we do. Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn’t followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don’t let it stop you from applying. Mentorship & Career Growth We’re continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth’s Best Employer. That’s why you’ll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional. Work/Life Balance We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why we strive for flexibility as part of our working culture. When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there’s nothing we can’t achieve in the cloud. Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be either a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be able to obtain a US export license. If you are unsure if you meet these requirements, please apply and Amazon will review your application for eligibility. - Experience programming in Java, C++, Python or related language - PhD in electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics or physics - Experience with written and verbal communication and presentation - Experience working on multi-team, cross-disciplinary projects - Demonstrated expertise with quantum error correction - Deep knowledge of quantum codes and protocols - Experience implementing and simulating fault-tolerant protocols - Track record of adapting fault-tolerance schemes to hardware constraints - Experience with fault-tolerant compiling of quantum algorithms - Publications in the area of quantum error correction or related fields - Experience with quantum computing software frameworks - Background in system-level optimization and performance analysis 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. 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