Maryland Quantum NEXUS

Job Description Summary

The Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence & Security (ARLIS) at the University of Maryland is a University-Affiliated Research Center (UARC) dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and technology transition to improve decision making for U.S. national security. ARLIS combines deep scientific expertise with operational insight to address challenges in intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence / machine learning, quantum science, and human-machine teaming. Researchers, scientists, engineers, and analysts at ARLIS collaborate with government agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions to deliver actionable insights and transformative solutions through research and development. Employees at ARLIS work on projects of critical importance, contribute directly to the nation’s security, and are supported by a culture that values integrity, collaboration, and professional growth.

Maryland Quantum NEXUS is ARLIS's quantum workforce development initiative required by the Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub MOU signed between DARPA and the State of Maryland. It is designed to build the next generation of talent for Maryland's quantum ecosystem. By connecting emerging quantum professionals with applied research, industry, government, and national security partners NEXUS develops workforce-ready professionals to support DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative and meet Maryland's growing quantum workforce needs while strengthening the state's leadership in quantum innovation.

Maryland Quantum NEXUS focuses on training technicians for practical work in qubit modalities including neutral atom, solid-state superconducting, solid-state semiconducting, and topological. The program is intended to recruit and develop early-career talent through a structured, multi-rotation model that combines hands-on project experience with mentorship and targeted professional development. The goal is to support participants in progressing from foundational technical knowledge to the applied skills and competencies required to contribute effectively in quantum research and industry environments.

We train technicians - not researchers, turning undergraduates and those with professional experience into quantum technicians and engineers. Our program focuses less on theory, advanced mathematics, and research practice and more on the day-to-day mix of hardware, software, and experimental skills needed to run quantum systems. Set up, tear down, and reconfigure labs. Calibrate instruments and evaluate results.

Must be able to obtain a US security clearance. If selected, must meet the requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to a government security clearance investigation that includes criminal and credit history checks, as well as verification of U.S. citizenship, birth, education, employment, and military history. Final offer is contingent upon the candidate’s ability to successfully obtain the necessary interim Secret security clearance, as determined by ARLIS, prior to commencing employment.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.

Experience:

Three years of experience in a science, engineering, or laboratory environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

- Familiarity with coding and programming practices.

- Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.

- Skill in troubleshooting errors and fault-finding.

- Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments.

- Ability to analyze situations and determine the best recourse for response.

- Physical Demands:

- Light work, splitting time between an office environment and a quantum laboratory environment.

- Exerts 21 to 35 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 13 to 21 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 7-10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

- Ability to attend meetings and events both on and off campus. When in office spending long hours in front of a computer screen. When in the lab requires walking or standing to a significant degree with periodic (monthly) tear down and rebuild of scientific equipment.

Application Submission Requirements:

Please carefully review the required application materials listed in this post and ensure that all requested documents are included with your submission. Incomplete applications or applications missing required documentation may not receive full consideration.

Preferences:

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry & Materials, or Quantum Technologies with two (2) years experience in a science, engineering, or laboratory environment.

- Able to operate basic test and measurement devices (e.g., power supplies, multimeters).

- Assembly, test, or calibration of electronic systems and components.

- Able to do basic troubleshooting using an iterative and logical approach.

- General practical experimental skills acquired through research experiences or lab coursework.

- Able to interpret computational or measurement results to understand physical systems.

- Programming experience with Python or Go for data processing, data visualization / representation, or other purposes.

- Able to troubleshoot code or use a debugger.

- Able to use computers to collect and process data.

- Able to perform data analysis, including uncertainty analysis.

- Able to integrate multiple scientific principles when designing experiments.

- Able to integrate multiple scientific principles to translate findings into practical applications.

- Able to prepare and deliver presentations to multiple stakeholders.

- Able to collaborate effectively with others.

- Able to think critically (e.g., critical assessment of their own work and that of others to identify strengths and limitations).

- Comfort working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

- Active security clearance or eligibility.

Licenses/ Certifications: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

Additional Job Details

Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume, List of References

Best Consideration Date: N/A

Posting Close Date: N/A

Open Until Filled: Yes

Department

Worker Sub-Type

Salary Range

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice

Resources

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