Quantum Research Scientist (Bethesda)

Reference: 734930BRPosted: 2026-07-14Location: Bethesda, MDSalary: $147,700 - $255,990Clearance: TS/SCICompany: Lockheed MartinDescription:At Lockheed Martin, we are pioneering the quantum frontier to deliver decisive advantages for national security. Our mission is to harness quantum‑enabled sensors, computing, and communications that provide unprecedented precision, speed, and resilience for today’s most demanding defense challenges. Guided by a vision of a quantum‑empowered future, we integrate breakthrough research with real‑world applications—building the next generation of quantum sensors for position, navigation, remote sensing and communications that safeguard our nation’s critical operations. Join us to shape transformative quantum technology that powers the defense missions of tomorrow. Job description: • Conducts end to end development of quantum algorithm prototypes and/or proof of concept quantum opto electronic subsystems.• Designs, builds, and characterizes laboratory experiments; translates experimental data into refined models. • Develops calibrated sensor models from laboratory measurements and support their integration into system level architectures for quantum accelerometers, gravimeters, magnetometers, and optical clock timing references.• Design, implement, and benchmark quantum algorithms for molecular modeling, materials discovery, scientific computing, optimization, and machine learning tasks relevant to defense missions.• Writes technical reports, proposal sections, and delivers presentations to customers, partners, and senior management.• Shapes and maintains strategic partnerships with external organizations• Mentors junior researchers and contribute to the development of internal training resources and best practice methodologies for quantum research.Basic Qualifications:• Education: Master’s (or Ph.D.) in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.• Experience: 8+ years of quantum algorithm development and/or quantum optical system research; demonstrable independent work in a distributed team environment.• Clearance: U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.• Communication: Excellent technical writing and presentation skills; experience interfacing with both internal and external stakeholders.Desired Skills:• Deep knowledge of quantum programming frameworks (Qiskit, Cirq, Braket) and algorithmic complexity analysis.• Plan, lead, and coordinate field demonstrations of quantum technology.• Hands on expertise with laser stabilization, optical parametric oscillators/amplifiers, and nonlinear optics.• Experience designing and implementing systems with Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs)• Proficient with modeling tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, LabVIEW, Mathcad, and optical system design software.• Proven record of contributing to peer reviewed papers, patents, or successful research proposals.Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.Clearance Level: TS/SCIOther Important Information You Should KnowExpression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.Ability to Work Remotely: Full-time Remote Telework: The employee selected for this position will work remotely full time at a location other than a Lockheed Martin designated office/job site. Employees may travel to a Lockheed Martin office for periodic meetings.Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.Schedule for this Position: 4x10 hour day, 3 days off per weekPay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $147,700 - $255,990. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate’s final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.This position is incentive plan eligible.Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $128,400 - $226,435. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate’s final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays. (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.This position is incentive plan eligible.Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work. With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you’re invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.Experience Level: Experienced ProfessionalBusiness Unit: CORPORATE HEADQUARTERSRelocation Available: NoCareer Area: Miscellaneous EngineeringType: Full-TimeShift: First