Description
Rigetti Computing is seeking a Director of Quantum System Deployment & Field Engineering to lead the global deployment, integration, commissioning, and lifecycle support of its on-premise quantum computing systems.
In this role, you will build and lead Rigetti's Field Engineering organization, ensuring the successful delivery of complete quantum systems - from factory acceptance through customer installation, commissioning, acceptance, and operational handoff. You will develop the people, processes, and operational standards required to scale commercial deployments worldwide.
Working across Hardware Engineering, Manufacturing, Quantum Engineering, Software, and Program Management, you will ensure every deployed system meets Rigetti's standards for performance, reliability, and customer success.
Responsibilities
- Build, lead, and scale Rigetti's global Field Engineering organization.
- Own the end-to-end deployment of on-premise quantum computing systems, including site readiness, installation, system integration, commissioning, customer acceptance, and operational handoff.
- Lead deployment of complex systems, including superconducting quantum processors, dilution refrigerators, RF/microwave hardware, control electronics, networking, and supporting infrastructure.
- Serve as the senior technical escalation point during customer deployments and field operations.
- Establish deployment processes, field engineering standards, training, documentation, and operational metrics.
- Partner cross-functionally with Hardware Engineering, Manufacturing, Software, Program Management, and Customer Success to improve deployment readiness, reliability, and customer experience.
- Drive continuous improvements in deployment efficiency, serviceability, and lifecycle support.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related technical field (Ph.D. preferred).
- 10+ years of experience deploying, integrating, or supporting complex hardware systems.
- 3+ years of people management experience.
- Strong systems engineering background integrating mechanical, electrical, software, networking, and controls systems.
- Experience with one or more of the following:
- Quantum computing
- Cryogenic systems
- RF/microwave systems
- Semiconductor equipment
- Scientific instrumentation
- Excellent customer-facing leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to travel globally (approximately 30–40%).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with superconducting quantum computing or dilution refrigerator systems.
- Experience supporting enterprise, government, or national laboratory customers.
- Experience building and scaling field engineering organizations.
- Familiarity with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and product lifecycle support.