Quantum Solutions Engineer

Role Overview

Pasqal is seeking a Mid-Senior Application Engineer specializing in Quantum Optimization to join our growing team in Thuwal, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This position requires expertise in Operations Research and/or Quantum Computing to lead client projects from conception through delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead quantum optimization projects with clients, managing all phases from initial discussions and problem formulation to final delivery.
• Assist the Commercial team by conducting feasibility studies and defining scopes of work for upcoming projects.
• Translate practical challenges into optimization models and assess solutions through analytical and experimental methods.
• Survey academic and industrial research to propose promising and feasible future research directions.
• Develop and scale quantum optimization applications leveraging Pasqal's quantum processors, enhancing current use cases.
• Design and execute benchmarking and feasibility analyses to evaluate classical limitations and map realistic paths toward quantum advantage.
• Collaborate closely with software engineering teams to build and run experimental pipelines using local emulation and high-performance computing resources.
• Undertake hardware-conscious development focused on neutral-atom quantum processors utilizing primarily analog methods.
• Create comprehensive blueprints guiding quantum utility development for client use cases, coordinating with R&D hardware groups.
• Engage with cross-functional teams, academic partners, and clients throughout projects to ensure technical goals and deliverables align.
• Support team collaboration including codebase ownership beyond immediate projects and contribute to ongoing scientific monitoring.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s or PhD in Combinatorial Optimization, Quantum Computing, or closely related disciplines.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a relevant role involving quantum optimization.
• Strong background in combinatorial optimization techniques such as linear and constrained programming, heuristics, metaheuristics, complexity, and graph theory.
• Comprehensive understanding of quantum computing principles including quantum algorithms, Hamiltonian optimization, Ising model formulations, adiabatic and variational methods, noise and error mechanisms, and hardware limits for neutral-atom quantum processors.
• Capability to bridge theoretical frameworks with pragmatic application to present and upcoming quantum hardware platforms.
• A results-oriented approach capable of rapid prototyping, benchmarking, iteration, and clear technical documentation.
• Proficient in Python programming with sound software engineering skills including version control, testing, and documenting code.
• Experienced in designing and analyzing experiments with emphasis on reproducibility and performance evaluation.
• Strong collaborator able to engage across engineering and R&D disciplines.
• Proven ability to manage entire projects, maintain timelines, and mitigate risks effectively.
• Excellent client-facing skills for building and maintaining professional relationships.

Employment Details and Benefits

• Permanent contract position based in Saudi Arabia.
• Work in a dynamic, international, and close-knit startup environment.
• Opportunity to hold a pivotal role in a rapidly expanding company.
• Allocated time for professional development including training, conferences, and meetups.

Recruitment Process

• Initial 30-minute interview with talent acquisition.
• Interview with the hiring manager.
• Technical skills assessment.
• Onsite team meeting.
• Job offer upon successful completion.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Pasqal values equal employment opportunities and is dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, religion, or sexual orientation.