Quantum Software Engineer

Also called: Quantum Algorithm Developer

Writes programs and algorithms for quantum computers.

A day in the life

You design a quantum algorithm to simulate a new battery molecule, test it on a real quantum computer over the cloud, and compare results with a classical supercomputer.

Pay over a career

Starting
$100k
Typical
$145k
High
$210k

Estimate.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Master's or PhD in physics, math, or CS common.

Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.

Majors to look at: Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics.

Outlook

Growing much faster than average. Small, growing niche.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. Quantum algorithms are a small, new field; AI helps code, but designing algorithms for new machines stays expert work.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP Physics C, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science A.

Official data: O*NET occupation 15-1221.

More Emerging Tech (Quantum, AR/VR, Blockchain, Neurotech) careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.