Quantum Computing / Advanced Computing

Although quantum computing roles are still specialist and represent a relatively small market in relation to other digital sectors, it’s clear that hiring is growing, especially in tech, pharmaceutical, defence, financial services companies and research institutions. This corresponds with an increase in investment in the field as organisations begin to explore near-term commercial applications.

When hiring for quantum software and algorithm development roles, managers are looking for a strong foundation in quantum mechanics, linear algebra, and quantum information theory. It’s also important to be able to show hands-on experience with quantum programming frameworks like Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane, or Q#. Even in software-focused roles, knowledge of hardware is important, since algorithm design is constrained by the realities of the current hardware landscape. This means being confident in superconducting qubits, trapped ion systems and photonic approaches.

Many of the available positions in this field are quantum research roles, which need a postgraduate qualification as well as a publication record, and are generally found in tech companies running research, national laboratories and universities.

Applicants with backgrounds in mathematics and computing might be looking at more applied roles focused on quantum-adjacent computing. This represents a broader adjacent market, and can be a way into the space for those who want to work in high-performance computing, tensor networks, and quantum-inspired optimisation.