Quantum Computing Engineer

Quantum Computing Engineer

MKS2 is seeking a highly experienced Quantum Computing / Cryptography Engineer (Key Personnel) to support a federal government program focused on advancing cryptographic modernization, quantum computing readiness, and post-quantum cryptography (PQC) initiatives. This role will serve as a subject matter expert responsible for evaluating emerging quantum technologies, assessing cryptographic risks, developing quantum-resistant strategies, and supporting enterprise-wide migration planning for future cryptographic standards.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in quantum computing, cryptography, cybersecurity, and secure systems architecture, with experience supporting large-scale enterprise or government environments. This individual will work closely with technical teams, security leadership, and executive stakeholders to ensure organizational readiness for the evolving quantum computing landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead assessments of organizational cryptographic systems and identify risks associated with advancements in quantum computing.
• Develop quantum-resilient security strategies and migration roadmaps aligned with federal cybersecurity requirements.
• Research, evaluate, and implement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) solutions and quantum-resistant algorithms.
• Advise stakeholders on the impact of quantum computing technologies on enterprise security architectures.
• Conduct cryptographic inventory assessments and prioritize systems for modernization and migration.
• Evaluate emerging cryptographic standards and frameworks, including NIST post-quantum cryptography standards.
• Design and test cryptographic solutions using classical and quantum simulation tools.
• Provide technical guidance for implementing quantum-safe encryption, key management, and PKI solutions.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity, software engineering, data science, and infrastructure teams to integrate quantum-resistant technologies.
• Support policy development, governance activities, and strategic planning related to cryptographic modernization.
• Prepare technical reports, executive briefings, and risk assessments for government stakeholders and leadership.
• Participate in technical working groups, architecture reviews, and program management activities.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of Information Technology experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of Quantum Computing and Cryptography experience supporting large corporations or Federal Government agencies comparable in size and complexity to the GSA, IRS, DoD, or VA.
• Experience supporting cryptographic modernization efforts and enterprise security initiatives.
• Experience evaluating emerging quantum technologies and developing implementation strategies.
• Experience working in project-based environments supporting large-scale technology initiatives.

Substitution:

• A Master's degree in a related Information Technology field may substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:

• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Cybersecurity
• Computer Science
• Information Systems
• Information Assurance
• Information Security
• Information Resource Management
• Related discipline

Required Certifications

Must possess one or more of the following certifications:

• Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level III
• Information Assurance Management (IAM) Level III
• Information Assurance System Architect and Engineer (IASAE) Level III

Required Expertise

• Strong understanding of quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and quantum computing principles.
• Expertise with quantum algorithms including Shor's Algorithm, Grover's Algorithm, and related quantum computational models.
• Hands-on experience with quantum development platforms and frameworks such as:
  • IBM Qiskit
  • Google Cirq
  • Quipper
  • Microsoft Quantum Development Kit
• Extensive knowledge of cryptographic protocols including RSA, AES, and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
• Expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum-resistant algorithms, and cryptographic modernization initiatives.
• Knowledge of cryptographic standards and compliance frameworks including NIST and ISO/IEC 19790.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, Java, or similar programming languages used for implementing and testing cryptographic solutions.
• Experience utilizing classical and quantum simulation environments.
• Proven ability to develop and advise on crypt