Principal Quantum Systems Architect

Microsoft

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
Redmond, WA
Salary
$165,600–$296,400 / yr
Posted
2 days ago
Closes
Dec 23, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Above market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $204k
This role $231k
$128k most similar roles pay here $314k

This role pays more than 71% of similar roles. Most pay $172,128–$235,750 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $231k versus about $204k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About Microsoft

Microsoft Corporation is a global technology leader producing software, hardware, and cloud services including Windows, Office 365, Azure cloud platform, Xbox gaming, and Surface devices. Industry: Software & Cloud Computing

Microsoft currently has 694 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $119,800–$234,700 across 636 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Principal Quantum Systems Architect

As a Principal Quantum Systems Architect at Microsoft’s Quantum program, you will lead the design and architecture of scalable classical control and readout systems for large-scale quantum computing. This strategic technical leadership position involves defining system architectures that bridge room-temperature and cryogenic domains, driving architectural direction for heterogeneous compute platforms, and establishing co-design strategies across hardware, firmware, software, and quantum systems. You will also define communication and synchronization frameworks to enable low-latency operation at scale, making significant contributions to the long-term evolution of quantum computing technology. Ideal candidates possess a doctorate or equivalent experience in Physics, Engineering, or related fields, along with expertise in complex system design, signal processing, and cross-functional leadership. Familiarity with cryogenic environments and emerging compute platforms is highly desirable.

What you'll do

  • Define system architecture for scalable quantum control and readout in room-temperature and cryogenic environments.
  • Drive architectural direction for heterogeneous compute platforms supporting various workloads.
  • Establish co-design strategies across hardware, firmware, software, and quantum systems.
  • Define communication and synchronization architectures enabling low-latency operation at scale.
  • Lead system-level trade-offs to guide platform evolution toward scalable production systems.

What we're looking for

  • Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field with 6+ years experience.
  • Define system architecture for scalable quantum control and readout systems.
  • Drive architectural direction for heterogeneous compute platforms supporting quantum workloads.
  • Establish co-design strategies across hardware, firmware, software, and quantum systems.
  • Lead system-level trade-offs to guide platform evolution toward production-ready systems.

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