You will be part of our hardware development team and work on the development of the most advanced quantum computers to date. Thermal stability is absolutely crucial for our quantum computer and ensuring it for all aspects on our machine will be your mission at planqc. In collaboration with mechanical, electrical and optical engineers you will identify problems, conceptualize, develop and test solutions and maintain operational stability for our machines.
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Your Role and Responsibilities:

• Identify and analyze thermal stability issues by calculating, testing, simulating and coordinating with other experts.
• Conceptualize and realize thermal management solutions for individual electrooptical devices, subassemblies and entire quantum computers: From hand calculations, simulations, prototyping, testing all the way to full implementation of your solutions.
• Liaison with suppliers and subcontractors is an integral part of realizing your designs.
• You collaborate closely with experts from mechanical, electrical and optical engineering to identify the best solutions for the entire system.
• You assume responsibility for your area of expertise and can establish new processes / methods / infrastructure across the company.

Required Qualifications:

• B.Sc. / M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in thermal engineering or similar
• Solid skills in numerical simulation for thermal / thermomechanical analysis
• Experience in thermal testing (test design and procdedures, measurement devices and post processing / data analysis / correlation with simulation)
• Interest and readiness to learn about new problems and disciplines related to neutral atom quantum computing
• hands-on mentality and open to try something on the fly

Supplementary Skills:

• 3 years of experience working in thermal engineering, ideally in a related field (semiconductors, aerospace, laser optics or similar)
• Solid skills in 3d design (ideally Solidworks)
• Experience in thermal management of semiconductors / optoelectronic devices
• Experience with a PLM system
• Experience in electrical or optical engineering

planqc, founded in 2022 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is a pioneering quantum computing startup based in Garching near Munich. We specialize in developing highly scalable neutral-atom quantum computers, utilizing individual atoms as qubits.
Here’s why you’ll love being part of our journey:

• Cutting-Edge Innovation: At planqc, you’ll work with state-of-the-art technology, using individual atoms as qubits to build highly scalable quantum computers. Our unique approach combines precision from the world’s best atomic clocks, quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates. Together, we’re creating the fastest path to industry-relevant quantum advantage.
• Impactful Projects: Join us as we develop groundbreaking quantum systems and software, including a 1,000-qubit computer for the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ), a bespoke quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and quantum algorithms for several DLR projects.
• Empowered by Excellence: With notable advisors and board members like Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM) and Professor Ann-Kristin Achleitner, we’re guided by exceptional leadership. Our Series A funding of €50 million allows us to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
• Dynamic Work Culture: We value innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team of around 50 brilliant minds works from locations in Garching, Ulm, and Innsbruck, fostering an environment where creativity meets ambition.
• Recognition and Growth: planqc’s achievements are celebrated globally. From winning the German Startup Award in 2023 to being named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2024, you’ll be part of a company that’s making history.
• Work-Life Synergy: Whether it’s through team events, after-work socials, or opportunities to attend quantum conferences worldwide, you’ll find a supportive community that values both your professional and personal growth.

At planqc, we harness the laws of quantum mechanics to build revolutionary computing systems. Our quantum computers store information in individual atoms — nature’s perfect qubits — and process it through scalable arrays manipulated by precisely controlled laser pulses. This groundbreaking technology is paving the way of redifining the future of computation but also enabling transformative applications across industries.
Our roots lie in decades of international research on neutral-atom quantum technologies. Building on the technology used in the world’s best atomic clocks combined with advanced quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates, we’ve built a foundation for innovation that’s unmatched.
At the heart of planqc is a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re a quantum physicist, software engineer, or operations expert, you’ll find a place here to grow, contribute, and thrive.

Together, we’re not just imagining the future — we’re building it.