Principal Software Engineer - Control Systems

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to help design and build the high-performance control systems that drive our next-generation quantum computing platforms. In this role, you’ll work across embedded software, real-time systems, GPU/FPGA acceleration, and hardware orchestration to deliver deterministic, high-throughput control pipelines. Your work will directly shape how our quantum processors operate, scale, and perform. This is a hands-on engineering role for someone who loves deep systems work, understands hardware/software co-design, and thrives at the intersection of physics, architecture, and performance engineering. Due to the need for collaboration with Atom’s theory, software and hardware teams, this role is required to be in the office in Boulder or Austin at least 3 days per week. Job Responsibilities Build and test embedded firmware and software powering high-speed software defined radios (SDRs), imaging pipelines, precision scientific instrumentation, and real-time digital feedback loops. Design and optimize deterministic, low-latency software for quantum hardware — including device drivers, Linux kernel modules, and custom subsystems. Evaluate and architect real-time execution strategies across Linux and RTOS environments; drive design decisions around determinism, throughput, and system scalability. Develop orchestration layers coordinating GPUs, FPGAs, and custom electronics for high-bandwidth, tightly synchronized quantum control operations. Rapidly prototype and iterate using Rust, Python, C/C++, and CUDA Collaborate with quantum theorists, hardware engineers, and platform software teams to translate quantum control flows into fast, reliable, production-ready code. Experience & Education Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree a plus At least 8 years of relevant postgraduate professional experience Qualifications Proficiency in software development using C++, Python, Rust, or Go; experience with NVIDIA CUDA toolchains and ability to apply these skills in rapid prototyping and production systems. Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: computer architecture, signal processing, algorithm development, quantum error correction, distributed systems, or compilers, with a willingness to learn across disciplines as needed. Organizational, coordination, and multi-tasking expertise. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills involving large-scale systems. Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to teamwork Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day! The base salary range for this position is between $165,000 - $200,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.