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# Principal Engineer, Quantum Software Development

- **Company:** Cisco Systems, Inc.
- **Location:** New York, NY, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $250,600
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Data Centers, Distributed Systems, Python (Programming Language), Software Architecture, Software Engineering, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration, Computerised Systems, Information Technology, Cisco, Golang
- **Published:** November 5, 2026
- **Apply:** https://diversityjobs.com/career/18842919/Principal-Engineer-Quantum-Software-Development-California-San-Jose

## About the Role

* Bachelors + 15 years of related experience, or Masters + 12 years of related experience, or PhD + 8 years of related experience, or equivalent related work experience.
 * 10+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on software architecture, system design, and distributed systems.
 * Experience using Golang and/or Python to design and deliver scalable, production-grade applications.
 * Experience in a technical leadership or people management role, maintaining hands-on contributions to codebases and system architecture.
 * Experience in hardware-software integration and co-design, supported by a foundational understanding of quantum mechanics and complex system architectures.

Preferred Qualifications

 * Sophisticated expertise in quantum control and orchestration for quantum networking or computing systems.
 * Direct experience developing and implementing error correction and noise mitigation strategies in quantum environments.
 * Experience leading innovative technology products from early-stage development to commercial readiness.
 * Experience mentoring engineers, foster an inclusive team culture, and collaborate across cross-functional research and development groups.
 * Advanced degree in Computer Science, Physics, Quantum Engineering, or a related technical field.

## Description

As a Principal Software Engineer and hands-on technical leader, you will guide a team of engineers while actively contributing to the architecture and development of quantum software and hardware systems. You will develop and implement distributed systems, ensuring flawless hardware-software integration for our quantum networking initiatives. By leveraging your expertise in software architecture and quantum mechanics, you will drive the development of quantum control, orchestration, and error correction solutions. Your leadership will directly influence the technical direction of realizing Cisco's vision for the Quantum Data Center, crafting the future of the quantum internet.