Your mission
At planqc, we build scalable quantum computers based on neutral atoms, one of the most promising architectures for achieving real-world quantum advantage.
As a
Quantum Algorithms Engineer - Optimization
, you will join our Gate-Based Quantum Optimization Team. You will turn solutions to complex optimization problems into circuits that are ready to run on planqc's quantum processors. Your focus is translating quantum optimization algorithms into production quality software that our teams and partners can build on with confidence.
You will work closely with our compilation, hardware and applications teams. Together you take algorithms from paper to robust, well tested implementations inside our quantum optimization library. The role suits engineers who enjoy working at the intersection of quantum algorithm research and professional software engineering.
Your responsibilities
Design, implement and benchmark
gate-based quantum algorithms for optimization problems
Translate algorithms
into clean, well-structured,
production-grade code
in our quantum optimization library
Research cutting-edge quantum algorithms for
solving classical optimization problems
Develop and evaluate approaches
for large-scale optimization problems
Apply quantum error mitigation methods
and optimized compilation pipelines to bridge ideal algorithms and noisy hardware
Use hardware-aware algorithm design
to maximize performance on planqc's quantum processors
Work closely with our compilation, hardware and applications teams to integrate your work into the platform
What you bring
Master's or PhD in physics
, computer science, mathematics or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
Substantial
professional software engineering experience
with a demonstrated commitment to code quality
Strong proficiency
in a modern programming language commonly used for quantum software, for example
Python
A
background in quantum computing
with a solid grasp of quantum algorithms and gate-based circuit models
Familiarity with
quantum compilation, circuit optimization or hardware-aware algorithm design
Comfort working in a collaborative, version-controlled engineering environment
Professional working proficiency in English (German not required)
Nice to have
Experience with
quantum optimization algorithms
in the variational and the fault-tolerant regime
Experience contributing to
larger software collaborations
or shared codebases, for example open source, research consortia or multi team industrial projects
Background in
classical optimization
or operations research
Experience with neutral atom platforms
What characterizes you
Why join planqc
At planqc, you will work on one of the most promising quantum computing architectures alongside a highly driven and collaborative team spanning physics, engineering, and software.
We combine deep-tech research with an engineering mindset, turning scientific breakthroughs into scalable quantum systems.
Joining us means:
Working on cutting-edge neutral atom quantum hardware
Taking ownership of quantum systems from day one
Collaborating with an exceptional, international team across disciplines
Contributing to a fast-growing quantum startup at a pivotal stage
Benefits at planqc
Flexible working: Flexible hours and hybrid work where the role allows.
Company pension: Betriebliche Altersvorsorge with an employer contribution.
Health and fitness: EGYM Wellpass for gyms, pools and studios, plus regular Health Days.
Job bike: Lease a bike through planqc.
Learning and development: Trainings and conference participation, including international conferences. Plus regular internal learning sessions where colleagues share their knowledge.
Relocation and visa support: Practical support for international hires and their move to Germany or Austria.
Four locations: Headquarters in Garching, an office in central Munich, plus sites in Ulm and Innsbruck.
Team culture: Regular team and company events throughout the year, from after work socials to our summer and Christmas parties.
If you're excited about
building quantum algorithms that run on real hardware
and solve real optimization problems, we'd love to hear from you.