System Engineer (Automation)

Position Overview

Photonic is seeking a System Engineer (Automation) to join the Quantum Processors department on a full-time basis. This role involves designing and creating a robust software layer that controls the operation of our quantum processor, ensuring production quality code and automation for our cutting‐edge systems. Location: Remote (Canada) Compensation: The base annual salary range for this full-time role is between $111,000 to $153,000. Candidates will work closely with high-performing teams including scientists, product engineers, and business units to develop scalable, high-quality software solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain a high-quality software layer that powers experiment orchestration, device control, calibration, and data analysis for our quantum processor.
• Collaborate closely with quantum engineers, modeling teams, and software teams to translate experimental requirements into scalable code (e.g. lab automation, data acquisition, and analysis tools).
• Create a software environment that promotes quality, scalability, and robustness from all contributors.
• Design and run automated test suites on hardware.
• Integrate and provide feedback on features implemented within the team and across departments.
• Contribute to architecture discussions.
• Document and communicate clearly — from READMEs and user guides to design docs — so that scientists and engineers can use and extend your tools.
• Champion engineering best practices and mentor teammates to help raise the bar through reviews and shared utilities.

Required Qualifications

• BSc/MSc in computer science, physics, engineering or equivalent education, with 3+ years of relevant industry experience. Quantum background is a plus.
• Strong, demonstrable Python expertise (3+ years in industry) building production systems – comfortable with packaging, testing, performance tuning, and data processing.
• Experience interfacing with physical systems or managing complex workflows (e.g. instrumentation, experiment control, or data pipelines).
• Proficiency with modern software practices including Bitbucket, Git, code review, CI/CD, and API design.
• Applied data skills and practical statistics for experiment analysis.
• Excellent analytical and debugging skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to express complex technical concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to creatively solve problems, prioritize effectively, and manage multiple priorities.
• Outstanding teamwork and communication skills to interface with various disciplines.

Benefits & Perks

• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs that redefine computing.
• Enjoy a fast-paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day.
• Be part of an inclusive company culture that values collaboration.
• Participate in regular social events and fun activities that keep our global team connected.
• Receive a competitive compensation package including base salary, stock options, and relocation assistance for global talent.
• Benefit from comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, an employee assistance program, parental leave top-ups, and a flexible spending account.