Quantum Design Engineer

About the role

You will spearhead the architecture and implementation of quantum chip designs that push the boundaries of current quantum hardware. This position places you at the core of defining how quantum processors are structured, optimized, and validated for real-world performance. You will own the end-to-end design of key on-chip components, ensuring they meet stringent performance and scalability targets. Collaboration with multidisciplinary experts will be central as you translate theoretical concepts into practical, manufacturable layouts. You will play a pivotal role in advancing the design infrastructure that supports future generations of MegaQubit processors. Your work will directly influence the roadmap of QuantWare's quantum processors and their ability to solve impactful problems. By driving innovation in design methodologies, you help remove critical hardware barriers for the entire quantum computing industry.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect and evolve the quantum chip design toolchain, focusing on the development and maintenance of PDKs, DRC flows, and tapeout generation tools.
• Lead quantum chip design projects from initial specification through to tapeout, concentrating on the design and optimization of novel on-chip quantum components.
• Establish and manage the full development loop for your designs, coordinating intricately with fabrication and measurement teams to ensure seamless transfer and experimental validation.
• Act as the primary design partner for Foundry customers, guiding them in adapting their circuits to QuantWare's PDK while upholding the highest standards of technical and operational compliance.
• Champion process optimization initiatives by scrutinizing existing workflows and proposing concrete enhancements that improve design-to-tapeout efficiency and reliability.
• Model and refine microwave and RF structures using advanced simulation tools to ensure that quantum components meet target specifications and performance margins.
• Translate high-level system requirements into concrete circuit and layout implementations, balancing trade-offs between functionality, yield, and scalability.
• Document design decisions, methodologies, and verification results meticulously to build a reusable knowledge base for the quantum design organization.
• Mentor junior engineers by providing code reviews, design guidance, and hands-on support within a fast-paced, cross-disciplinary team environment.
• Proactively identify project risks and dependencies, coordinating with measurement and fabrication partners to mitigate issues before they impact delivery timelines.

Requirements

• Hold an MSc or higher level qualification with a strong focus on circuit design and microwave or RF engineering fundamentals.
• Demonstrate hands-on expertise with RF simulation tools such as ANSYS HFSS, Sonnet, or equivalent, proving your ability to model and optimize microwave structures accurately.
• Bring 4+ years of professional experience in collaborative Python programming, contributing to large-scale codebases and automated workflows.
• Maintain a solid track record of delivering complex technical projects, showing initiative, autonomy, and a consistent focus on practical impact and results.
• Exhibit strong organizational and problem-solving skills, thriving in a cross-disciplinary environment where responsibilities evolve rapidly.
• Comfortably take ownership of tasks and decisions from day one, demonstrating accountability for design outcomes and team success.
• Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment on objectives, constraints, and deliverables.
• Adhere strictly to project timelines and quality standards, understanding the critical nature of tapeout milestones in a high-stakes development environment.

Nice to have

• Direct experience working with superconducting and quantum circuits, providing insight into the unique constraints and behaviors of quantum hardware.
• Familiarity with quantum design and layout tools such as Qiskit Metal, KLayout, or GDSFactory, along with practical exposure to CI/CD pipelines.
• Knowledge of nanofabrication processes and cryogenic measurement techniques, enabling more accurate design iterations and failure analysis.

Practical notes

The role is based in Delft and operates on a full-time engagement basis. The position may involve occasional travel within the Netherlands and Europe for collaboration, project meetings, or conferences, and candidates must be eligible to work in the Netherlands. No specific visa sponsorship details are provided in the source material.