Quantum computing uses quantum mechanics to more quickly solve problems that are too complex for non-quantum, i.e., classical, computers. This rapidly emerging technology can be applied to a number of fields, including software development, healthcare, medicine, and artificial intelligence.

The worldwide global quantum computing market was estimated to generate $866 million in revenue in 2023 and that figure is expected to swell to $4.375 billion by 2028. This is due, in part, to the fact that more industries are investing in and using quantum computing technology.

As such, a career in quantum computing can offer engaging work, recognition within the industry, as well as high annual salaries.

Here are some tips to help you land your first job in the lucrative field of quantum computing:

DECIDE ON A CAREER PATH

The first thing you need to do is figure out which career track you want to follow. Do you want to work in research, software development, engineering, marketing, or education? Before you decide on a particular, consider your interests and skills.

For example, If you have great coding skills, then you might be a good fit for a role in software development. Or maybe you want to work in the field of quantum computing, but you’re really not technically inclined. In that case, a job in marketing might be just the ticket.

GET AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE

If you want to become a quantum computing professional, you must have a strong grasp of math and science because you’ll be working with numbers and calculations. Consequently, you’ll need to earn an undergraduate degree at a university in physics, programming, mathematics, or computer science.

Evaluate each career program, then speak with some professors who can help you determine the major that’s most appropriate for your career path as well as your long-term professional goals in the field. You should also meet with quantum computing experts and ask them what path they chose when they began their careers. Ask their opinions about the programs and opportunities for networking in each path.

CONSIDER GRADUATE SCHOOL

While most companies expect you to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, some employers require you to have an advanced degree, such as a master’s degree or doctorate, for certain positions. By studying advanced math, physics, computer science, and general science, you can better comprehend the practical applications of quantum computing. This will enable you to to solve more complex problems and apply for more advanced roles.

GAIN RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

Check out all the positions at large tech companies that develop quantum computers or use quantum computing as some are conducting research in quantum computing and looking for business opportunities in the field. Although you may not work with quantum computers initially, you’ll gain experience in a similar field that can help boost your skills. Consider internships at tech companies that work in the quantum computing field as they enable you to gain valuable experience. They also open the door to developing relationships with experts in quantum computing through networking.

ENROLL IN A QUANTUM COMPUTING BOOTCAMP

As a student in a quantum computing bootcamp, you’ll learn the basics of quantum computing and its applications in a variety of fields. Investigate bootcamps offered by private companies as well as universities.

KEY QUANTUM COMPUTING SKILLS

To work in the field of quantum computing, you need certain skills. Some of the most in-demand skills include:

Advanced mathematics: To work in quantum computing you need to understand applications of the principles of calculus, trigonometry, calculus, and other advanced math.

Linear algebra and probability theory: These specific branches of math are used heavily to describe and analyze the behavior of a quantum computer. The language of quantum computing is linear algebra, which is widely used to describe quantum operations and qubit states. It is also used to predict how a quantum computer will respond to a sequence of instructions. Probability theory predicts the behavior of the system and its possible outputs.

Quantum programming: You also have to know how to use quantum programming languages to code. These programming languages include:

• Python: Used to write quantum algorithms, Python is supported by numerous quantum computing frameworks, such as Ocean and Qiskit.
• Ocean: A set of quantum computing tools written in Python that include tools for simulating quantum computers, developing and executing quantum circuits, and running quantum algorithms.
• Qiskit: An open-source quantum computing framework that’s also written in Python, Qiskit offers tools to enable you to create and execute quantum circuits, simulate quantum computers, and run quantum algorithms.
• Q#: Developed by Microsoft, this quantum computing programming language is used to write quantum algorithms. It also integrates with Visual Studio and other Microsoft development tools.
• Cirq: Developed by Google, Cirq is used to write quantum algorithms. It works with Google’s quantum computing framework

Research skills: While working with quantum computing hardware or software, you’re likely to face complex challenges. To solve these challenges, you have to have advanced research skills along with an understanding of where to find the answers to your questions.

Algorithmic computation: If you’re aiming for a position as a quantum computing scientist, it’s critical that you’re able to use quantum algorithms to perform computations.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning: You need to understand AI and its applications to develop quantum learning models. Together, quantum computing and machine learning simplify the process of training data models.

Physics: Many employers prefer that you also have a background in quantum physics. For example, a quantum software programmer needs to understand some physics as well as how quantum algorithms work.

APPLY FOR A JOB IN QUANTUM COMPUTING

When you have the requisite education and experience, you can start applying for jobs in the quantum computing field. Some of the top-paying jobs include quantum software engineers quantum hardware engineers, and quantum computing scientists.

Sometimes employers don’t mention quantum computing in the titles of their job postings in this field, so be sure to read the posting itself because they may have included it there.

You should also contact people in your network, i.e., professors, former classmates, colleagues, and ask about open positions in the field of quantum computing. Using these contacts is crucial because positions available in this field often require references.

Search for open positions, such as quantum computer architect, quantum engineer, quantum AI developer, on the top job boards, including Glassdoor, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter.