Quantum Networking Metrology Scientist

Quantum Networking Metrology Scientist / Computer Scientist

Period of Performance: October 15, 2026 – October 14, 2027

Position Overview

SMX Services & Consulting is seeking a highly specialized Quantum Networking Metrology Scientist / Computer Scientist to support advanced quantum networking and metrology research at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The selected candidate will contribute to cutting-edge quantum communications and networking initiatives by supporting experimental quantum systems, laboratory development, precision measurement activities, data analysis, and technical reporting. This position is ideal for a senior-level researcher with extensive hands-on experience in quantum physics, quantum optics, photonics, quantum communications, laser systems, and experimental quantum hardware.

Due to the laboratory-intensive nature of the work, candidates located within commuting distance of Gaithersburg, Maryland are strongly preferred.

Position Details

CategoryDetails

Job Title

Quantum Networking Metrology Scientist / Computer Scientist

Location

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

Work Arrangement

Primarily onsite; limited remote work may be authorized for documentation, reporting, analysis, and coordination activities with Government approval

Employment Type

Full-Time Contract

Period of Performance

October 15, 2026 – October 14, 2027

Target Pay Range

$101.20 – $104.50/hour

Annualized Equivalent

Approximately $210,496 – $217,360 (based on 2,080 hours)

Security Clearance

No active clearance required. Candidate must be eligible to complete all NIST access, badging, and onboarding requirements.

Key Responsibilities

The selected scientist will support advanced quantum networking and metrology research activities, including:

Quantum Laboratory Operations

• Support the setup, operation, stabilization, maintenance, and documentation of experimental quantum networking and metrology laboratory capabilities.

• Assist with laboratory troubleshooting and optimization efforts.

Quantum System Development

• Support the design, implementation, testing, validation, and refinement of experimental quantum systems and apparatus.

• Contribute to the development of new quantum networking methodologies and experimental approaches.

Quantum Optics and Photonics

• Perform experimental work involving lasers, photons, optical paths, polarization control, interference, entanglement, and quantum-state measurements.

• Support optical alignment and calibration activities.

Entangled Photon Systems

• Assist in the development, testing, characterization, and optimization of entangled photon sources and measurement systems.

• Support experiments involving quantum state generation and verification.

Laser Stabilization and Precision Measurement

• Support ultra-stable laser development and stabilization efforts.

• Assist with optical cavity characterization, phase-sensitive measurements, and related metrology activities.

Scientific Instrumentation

• Operate and maintain instrumentation used in quantum networking and precision measurement experiments.

• Support calibration, testing, and performance validation activities.

Experimental Planning and Execution

• Develop test plans, measurement approaches, experimental controls, and data collection methodologies.

• Support execution of complex laboratory experiments.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze experimental data and evaluate system performance.

• Identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.

• Develop technical conclusions and recommendations based on experimental results.

Technical Documentation

• Prepare technical reports, laboratory procedures, progress reports, findings, presentations, and supporting documentation.

• Maintain clear and accurate records of experimental activities.

Government Collaboration

• Work closely with NIST researchers, laboratory personnel, and project leadership to ensure alignment with program objectives and research priorities.

Required Qualifications

Education

Ph.D. in Quantum Physics, Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Physics, Quantum Information Science, or a closely related discipline

Experience

Approximately 8+ years of experience conducting quantum experiments or supporting advanced experimental quantum physics research

Quantum Systems

Demonstrated experience designing, implementing, testing, stabilizing, or operating experimental quantum systems

Laboratory Experience

Hands-on experience working in research laboratory environments involving quantum optics, photonics, lasers, detectors, optical tables, or precision measurement systems

Quantum Hardware

Experience supporting or developing experimental quantum hardware, optical systems, entangled photon systems, or laser-based apparatus

Technical Writing

Ability to produce clear scientific reports, technical documentation, findings, and recommendations

Communication Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with federal researchers and technical stakeholders

Location Requirement

Ability to work primarily onsite in Gaithersburg, Maryland

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas are highly desirable:

• Quantum networking and quantum communications research

• Quantum metrology and precision measurement science

• Time and frequency measurement systems

• Entanglement swapping and entangled photon source development

• Ultra-stable lasers and optical cavity systems

• Laser linewidth reduction and phase-sensitive measurement techniques

• Fiber-optic and free-space optical communication systems

• Polarization control, interferometry, and single-photon detection

• Scientific programming and automation for experiment control and data acquisition

• Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Mathematica, or similar scientific computing environments

• Previous experience supporting NIST, national laboratories, universities, or federally funded research programs

• Technical publications, peer-reviewed research, scientific presentations, or journal-quality reporting

Ideal Candidate Profile

• The ideal candidate is a senior quantum researcher with deep experimental expertise in quantum optics, quantum communications, and precision measurement science.

Skills:

Analysis Skills, Applied Physics, Automation, Calibration, Communication Skills, Communication Systems, Computer Science, Computer Systems, Consulting, Data Analysis, Data Collection, Documentation, Government, Hardware Development, Identify Issues, Information Science, Instrumentation, LabVIEW Programming Language, Laboratory, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Laser Communications, Leadership, MATLAB, Mathematica, Metrology, Microsoft Windows Mobile, Network Support, Onboarding, Performance Testing, Photonics, Physics, Polarization, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Progress Reports, Python Programming/Scripting Language, Quantum Optics, Reporting Skills, Research Laboratory, Research Skills, Scientific Research, Technical Publications, Technical Research, Technical Writing, Test Plan/Schedule, Testing, Trend Analysis, U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Validation Testing, Work From Home, Writing Skills

About the Company:

SMX USA