When people imagine quantum computing careers, they often picture Einstein-like researchers in lab coats. The reality is different: according to an analysis of over 5,000 quantum job postings, 55% required only a bachelor's degree, an associate's degree, or no degree at all.
The quantum industry has a talent shortageโand that's creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds willing to learn. Here's what the data actually shows about who's getting hired and what skills matter.
The Data: Who's Actually Getting Hired
The Chicago Quantum Exchange analysed over 5,000 quantum jobs posted through the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C) and the Quantum Computing Report. For 2022-2023:
- 55% required only a bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or no degree at all
- 14% required a master's degree
- 31% required a PhD
Even more striking: in the private sector specifically, approximately 80% of jobs did not require a PhD. Doctorates were mainly needed for academic and national lab positions.
The job postings included roles like Supply Chain Manager at Rigetti Computing, Principal System Architect at Microsoft Quantum, and Lead Optical Engineer at Honeywell (now Quantinuum)โall requiring bachelor's degrees.
๐ From Cake Decorating to Quantum Computing
When Cari Grubb saw a technician job at quantum hardware company Infleqtion, she noticed it didn't require a PhD, a physics background, or quantum experience. It asked for "good fine motor skills."
After years decorating cakesโ"carefully sculpting waves, letters, and roses with frosting"โshe knew she qualified. "Just knowing how to hold my hands and steady myself really did make a difference," Grubb said of her seven years as lead technician, placing extremely small components and bonding glass cells.
Her story illustrates what employers actually need: people with transferable skills and willingness to learn.
Why the Shortage?
A 2022 McKinsey report found only one qualified candidate for every three quantum job openings. By some estimates, roughly two-thirds of quantum-related jobs worldwide went unfilled for lack of qualified professionals.
The gap is so acute that the White House labeled the quantum workforce shortage a "national security vulnerability."
Reasons for the shortage:
- Interdisciplinary nature: Quantum tech blends physics, computer science, engineering, and mathematicsโno single degree covers everything
- Rapid growth: The field is expanding faster than traditional education pipelines can supply
- Perception gap: Many qualified people don't realise they're qualified because they assume quantum requires a physics PhD
What Roles Are Available?
The quantum workforce includes far more than researchers. Here are roles across the spectrum:
Quantum Technician Associate's / Bachelor's
Builds, tests, and maintains quantum hardware systems. Requires fine motor skills, attention to detail, and willingness to work with cryogenic or optical equipment.
Key skills: Hands-on assembly, troubleshooting, documentation, lab safety
Cryogenic Engineer Bachelor's
Designs and maintains the cooling systems that quantum computers need. Strong overlap with existing cryogenic engineering in medical, industrial, and aerospace applications.
Key skills: Mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, system design
Quantum Software Developer Bachelor's
Writes the classical code that controls quantum computers and interfaces with quantum processors. Even quantum code runs on classical systems.
Key skills: Python, classical software engineering, willingness to learn quantum frameworks (Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane)
RF/Microwave Engineer Bachelor's
Many quantum systems rely on precise microwave signals for qubit control. Experienced RF engineers can transition from telecom or defense.
Key skills: Analog electronics, signal processing, RF design
Optical Engineer Bachelor's
Critical for photonic quantum computing. Designs and aligns optical systems, laser paths, and photon detectors.
Key skills: Optics fundamentals, laser systems, fiber coupling
Quantum Applications Specialist Bachelor's / Master's
Bridges quantum capability with industry applications. Requires domain expertise (finance, chemistry, logistics) plus quantum literacy.
Key skills: Industry knowledge, quantum algorithms basics, communication
Salary Ranges
Quantum computing roles typically pay well, even at entry level:
| Level | Typical Salary (USD) | Typical Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $70,000 - $100,000 | $105,000 - $150,000 |
| Mid-Level | $120,000 - $160,000 | $180,000 - $240,000 |
| Senior / Lead | $180,000 - $250,000 | $270,000 - $375,000 |
Note: Australian quantum salaries are becoming increasingly competitive as companies like PsiQuantum, Quantum Brilliance, and Q-CTRL expand local operations.
Skills That Transfer
Much of what quantum companies need isn't quantum-specific at all. Many technical skills required for quantum jobs can be learned or acquired in fields that aren't quantum:
๐ง Transferable Technical Skills
- Python programming: The dominant language for quantum software and classical control systems
- Analog circuit design: Cryogenic and electronic systems need experienced engineers
- Semiconductor fabrication: Quantum chips use many of the same processes as classical chips
- System integration: Making complex systems work together reliably
- Laboratory techniques: Precision measurement, equipment maintenance, experimental design
- Technical writing: Documentation, user guides, API references
"We're just now getting into an era where our sophisticated machinery is mature enough that you don't need a PhD to run it. This is the transition that quantum companies have to make." โ Quantum industry CTO
How to Get Started
If You're a Student
- Build fundamentals: Linear algebra, programming (Python), basic physics concepts
- Try free platforms: Q-CTRL Black Opal, IBM Qiskit textbook, Microsoft Learn quantum modules
- Join university labs: Many quantum research groups welcome undergraduates
- Target internships: IBM Quantum, Google Quantum AI, and startups offer summer programs
- Consider scholarships: Queensland's Quantum Talent Building Program funds 90+ students annually
If You're Pivoting from Another Field
- Identify overlap: What skills from your current role transfer? (See transferable skills above)
- Add quantum literacy: You don't need to become a physicistโbasic understanding of qubits, gates, and algorithms is often sufficient
- Network strategically: QED-C, Women in Quantum Development (WiQD), and quantum meetups connect newcomers with industry
- Apply anyway: Job descriptions are wishlistsโcompanies often hire for potential and train for specifics
If You're an Educator
- Update career guidance: Help students understand quantum careers don't require PhDs
- Connect curricula: Linear algebra, Python, and physics fundamentals prepare students for quantum pathways
- Leverage free resources: Q-CTRL's TAFE partnership provides free access for Australian vocational students
Australian Opportunities
Australia's quantum industry is creating local career pathways:
- PsiQuantum Brisbane: Up to 400 jobs across engineering, physics, software, and technical roles
- Quantum Brilliance Melbourne: Diamond quantum systems, room-temperature focused
- Q-CTRL Sydney: Quantum software, enterprise deployment
- Diraq Sydney: Silicon spin qubits, CMOS manufacturing
- Silicon Quantum Computing Sydney: Precision atom qubits
- University positions: UQ, UNSW, Griffith, and others with active quantum research
The Queensland government's $89.7M quantum strategy specifically includes workforce development, TAFE partnerships, and scholarship programs designed to broaden quantum access beyond traditional physics pathways.
๐ Key Takeaways for Career Planning
- Most quantum jobs (55%+) don't require graduate degrees; ~80% in private industry don't require PhDs
- The talent shortage is real: 3 job openings per qualified candidate
- Transferable skills matter: Python, electronics, optics, fabrication, technical writing
- Curiosity and willingness to learn often outweigh specific quantum credentials
- Australian opportunities are growing with PsiQuantum, Quantum Brilliance, and government investment
"There is something for anyone who is interested in getting in on the ground floor of this 'industry of the future.'" โ Celia Merzbacher, Quantum Economic Development Consortium
References
- Chicago Quantum Exchange: "Fast-growing quantum tech industry has well-paid jobs"
- IEEE Spectrum: "The Skills You Need for Jobs in Quantum Computing" (October 2025)
- PostQuantum: "Career Opportunities in Quantum Technologies" (September 2025)
- McKinsey & Company: Quantum Technology Workforce Analysis (2022)
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