Quantum Research Scientist

Location: Pasadena, California, USA

Responsibilities: Develop novel fabrication processes for high-coherence superconducting qubits. Research and develop advanced 3D integration, interconnect, and routing technologies for superconducting quantum processors. Perform micro- and nano-fabrication research inside cleanroom environments. Plan and execute experiments independently and in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Analyze inline metrology, fabrication, and electrical test data to improve process performance. Develop and document production standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transferring newly developed fabrication processes into production. Collaborate with project leads to improve fabrication and packaging processes through continuous feedback. Research and evaluate new fabrication and packaging technologies for next-generation quantum processors. Stay current with emerging developments in superconducting quantum processor fabrication and packaging. Work closely with scientists, engineers, and technicians across hardware and software disciplines.

Qualifications: Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related science or engineering discipline, or a Master's degree with at least four years of quantitative research experience. Demonstrated experience applying scientific principles to solve engineering or product development challenges. Experience analyzing experimental and observational datasets. Proven track record of impactful work in micro- and nano-fabrication. Hands-on experience with: Electron beam lithography. Photolithography using aligners, steppers, or scanners. Wet and dry wafer etching techniques. Wafer cleaning and lift-off processes. Thin film deposition methods including PECVD, LPCVD, ALD, sputtering, evaporation, and furnace oxidation. Semiconductor and thin-film metrology techniques such as AFM, SEM, XPS, EDX, profilometry, reflectometry, and ellipsometry. Manufacturing execution systems (MES).Ability to manage multiple projects while working independently and collaboratively. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred: Programming experience with Python, MATLAB, R, or similar scripting languages. Experience with Agile development methodologies. Experience building web-based dashboards. Familiarity with superconducting quantum computing components, fabrication, and packaging. At least one year of industry experience in a semiconductor cleanroom environment. Experience with: Electroplating. Wafer thinning. Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP).Flip-chip and wafer-level packaging. Temporary and permanent wafer bonding.2.5D and 3D integration technologies. Experience performing failure analysis and root cause investigations. Knowledge of statistical analysis, design of experiments (DOE), JMP, or Minitab. Experience with yield monitoring, statistical process control (SPC), and process capability analysis. Excellent written, verbal, and data presentation skills.

Benefits and Compensation: Annual base salary: $136,000 to $184,000 USD, depending on experience, qualifications, and location. Additional compensation may include: Sign-on bonus. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).Comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, dental, and vision insurance. Prescription drug coverage. Basic and supplemental life insurance. Employee Assistance Program (EAP).Mental health support. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).Adoption and surrogacy reimbursement.401(k) with company matching. Paid time off. Parental leave. Flexible hybrid work arrangement with opportunities for in-office collaboration.

Other Information: Join a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers developing next-generation cloud quantum computing technologies at the AWS Center for Quantum Computing. Conduct research in both cleanroom and laboratory environments focused on superconducting quantum processor fabrication. Work on technologies that support future quantum computing services delivered through AWS.AWS encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification. The company provides mentorship, career development resources, employee-led affinity groups, and a collaborative work environment. Amazon is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process.