Quantum Error Correction Engineer

At planqc, we are building scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computers based on neutral atoms. Realizing this vision requires bridging the latest research inquantum error correction (QEC) with the constraints and capabilities of real hardware: translating theory into a working fault-tolerant architecture.

As aQuantum Error Correction Engineer, you will play a key role in shaping planqc’s roadmap toward fault-tolerant quantum computation. You will design and analyze QEC schemes tailored to neutral-atom architectures, benchmark protocols under realistic noise models, and work hand-in-hand with our hardware, control, and algorithm teams to turn QEC research into concrete engineering milestones.

This role sits at theinterface of quantum physics, theory, and systems engineering, and is ideal for an exceptionally driven individual who is motivated to contribute to a challenge of generational significance.

• Take ownership of selected QEC workstreams, driving design decisions on code choice, fault-tolerant protocols, and resource trade-offs.
• Contribute toplanqc’s fault-tolerance roadmap, translating QEC research into concrete architectural and engineering milestones.
• Develop and analyzequantum error correction schemes tailored to neutral-atom architectures.
• Performnumerical simulations of QEC protocols and benchmark decoders under realistic noise models.
• Analyzetrade-offs between different error correction schemes for the implementation of logical operations.
• Build and maintainsimulation and benchmarking tools for logical circuits.
• Collaborate withquantum algorithm engineers to co-design quantum algorithms that leverage platform-specific features.
• Collaborate withhardware and control teams to implement fault-tolerant protocols aligned with system constraints.
• Stay up to date with advances in quantum error correction and contribute tointernal knowledge sharing.
• Contribute to planqc's intellectual property andpublish results in peer-reviewed journals. 
• Represent planqc at conferences as in the broader quantum computing research community.

• A degree inphysics, preferably with a focus on quantum science and technology.
• A solid background inquantum computing, quantum information, quantum many-body physics, or closely related fields.
• Provable ability to undertakehigh-quality scientific work.
• Experience withscientific computing (Python, Julia, or similar).
• Ability and willingness towork across theory and implementation, collaborating in a multidisciplinary team.

• APhD in a relevant field of quantum physics, with a strong track record of scientific publications.
• Prior experience inquantum error correction and coding theory: familiarity with stabilizer formalism, topological codes and qLDPC codes is very much appreciated.
• Experience withnumerical simulation of stabilizer states (e.g. Stim) and decoding under circuit-level noise models.
• Familiarity withcollaborative software development environments and tools (e.g. Git, code review, CI/CD workflows).
• Strongcommunication skills, with the ability to present results clearly and effectively.
• Anunderstanding of neutral-atom platforms is an asset.

Research suggests that candidates from underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply unless they meet every single listed requirement. We’re looking for people who want to help push the frontier of quantum computing, rather than ticking boxes on a job description. If this role excites you and you think you could contribute, we’d be very happy to hear from you.

• You arehighly motivated to contribute to an ambitious, long-term scientific and technological challenge.
• You bringcuriosity and a willingness to engage with complex, open-ended problems.
• You have acollaborative mindset and enjoy working across disciplines and teams.
• You arecomfortable with change and open-ended challenges, where the right approach isn’t yet known.
• You are able towork independently while actively contributing to a collaborative research environment, including sharing knowledge across teams.

• 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

• 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 helping build the foundations offault-tolerant quantum computing, we’d love to hear from you.