Technical Leader, Distributed Quantum Computing and Quantum Networking Theorist

  • Location:
    Santa Monica, California, US
  • Area of Interest
    Engineer - Software
  • Compensation Range
    154000 USD - 215000 USD
  • Job Type
    Professional
  • Technology Interest
    Networking, Software Development
  • Job Id
    1438069
The application window is expected to close on: 5/23/2025. Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received. 

Meet the Team 

Welcome to the Cisco Outshift Quantum Team, a dynamic and innovative group at the forefront of cutting-edge technology. Our team is dedicated to exploring and harnessing the potential of quantum technology to revolutionize the future of networking and communications. Comprised of talented scientists, engineers, and visionary thinkers, we collaborate to push the boundaries of what's possible, developing solutions for quantum networking. At Cisco Outshift, we foster an environment of creativity, inclusivity, and continuous learning, where each team member's unique expertise contributes to our collective success.
 
Your Impact 

Cisco Quantum Research is seeking a highly skilled Scientist or Engineer with a software development background to join our Quantum Theory and Algorithm Team. You will collaborate with a dynamic group of scientists and engineers to develop ground breaking quantum networking solutions. Your role will involve both scientific research and the prototype development of a network simulation and emulation for Cisco's quantum networking technologies and solutions.  Some of your responsibilities will include:
  • Theoretical analysis and development of novel scientific methods and technological solutions to address grand challenges in scalable dynamic quantum entanglement networking with specific focus on distributed quantum computing. 
  • Propose innovative solutions for simulating and emulating quantum networks to meet the requirements of entanglement distribution networks for distributed quantum computing.
  • Contribute to the development and enhancement of Cisco's quantum network simulation and emulation platforms.
  • Provide theoretical support for experimental scientists and engineers working on develop prototype quantum networking systems and subsystems, conducting both table-top and on-site tests.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental results, proposing solutions for improvement.
  • Contribute to the development of the continuously expanding Cisco Live quantum network test-bed.
  • Contribute to lab and team development.
Minimum Qualifications: 
  • PhD degree in Physics, Math or Computer Science or equivalent required.
  • 1+ years of relevant academic or industry research experience. 
  • Experience in modeling of complex quantum systems.
  • Demonstrates a strong understanding of quantum information concepts and applications. 
Preferred Qualifications: 
  • PhD with a focus on quantum information theory or quantum computation preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member.
  • Familiarity with quantum networks and quantum error correction. 
  • Prior experience in experimental fields.
  • Experience with programming and algorithms. 
#WeAreCisco 
#WeAreCisco where every individual brings their unique skills and perspectives together to pursue our purpose of powering an inclusive future for all. 
 
Our passion is connection—we celebrate our employees’ diverse set of backgrounds and focus on unlocking potential. Cisconians often experience one company, many careers where learning and development are encouraged and supported at every stage. Our technology, tools, and culture pioneered hybrid work trends, allowing all to not only give their best, but be their best. 
We understand our outstanding opportunity to bring communities together and at the heart of that is our people. One-third of Cisconians collaborate in our 30 employee resource organizations, called Inclusive Communities, to connect, foster belonging, learn to be informed allies, and make a difference. Dedicated paid time off to volunteer—80 hours each year—allows us to give back to causes we are passionate about, and nearly 86% do! 
 
Our purpose, driven by our people, is what makes us the worldwide leader in technology that powers the internet. Helping our customers reimagine their applications, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals is what we do best. We ensure that every step we take is a step towards a more inclusive future for all. Take your next step and be you, with us!  

Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:

When available, the salary range posted for this position reflects the projected hiring range for new hire, full-time salaries in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including equity or benefits. For non-sales roles the hiring ranges reflect base salary only; employees are also eligible to receive annual bonuses. Hiring ranges for sales positions include base and incentive compensation target. Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location and additional factors, including but not limited to skillset, experience, and relevant education, certifications, or training. Applicants may not be eligible for the full salary range based on their U.S. or Canada hiring location. The recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees have access to quality medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, short and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance and numerous wellbeing offerings.

Employees receive up to twelve paid holidays per calendar year, which includes one floating holiday (for non-exempt employees), plus a day off for their birthday. Non-Exempt new hires accrue up to 16 days of vacation time off each year, at a rate of 4.92 hours per pay period. Exempt new hires participate in Cisco’s flexible Vacation Time Off policy, which does not place a defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use, but is subject to availability and some business limitations. All new hires are eligible for Sick Time Off subject to Cisco’s Sick Time Off Policy and will have eighty (80) hours of sick time off provided on their hire date and on January 1st of each year thereafter.  Up to 80 hours of unused sick time will be carried forward from one calendar year to the next such that the maximum number of sick time hours an employee may have available is 160 hours. Employees in Illinois have a unique time off program designed specifically with local requirements in mind. All employees also have access to paid time away to deal with critical or emergency issues. We offer additional paid time to volunteer and give back to the community.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:

.75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;

1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;

1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

Share