Quantum Computing Jobs in 2025: 3x Growth & Top Skills Needed

Quantum computing used to sound like science fiction, but now, it’s hiring. Across the US, new roles are opening up for developers, physicists, engineers, and curious problem-solvers alike.

Salaries are high, demand is rising, and the skills needed are more accessible than you might think.

This article explores the current demand for jobs in quantum computing, the most sought-after skills, and why now is a great time to consider building a career in this fast-moving and high-paying tech field.

Table of Contents Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Quantum Computing Jobs Are Rising & So Is the Demand for Skills
3. What Are the Most In-Demand Skills for Quantum Computing Jobs?
4. Why Now Is a Good Time to Upskill in Quantum
5. The Bottom Line
6. FAQs
7. References

Show Full Guide

Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Quantum Computing Jobs Are Rising & So Is the Demand for Skills
3. What Are the Most In-Demand Skills for Quantum Computing Jobs?
Show Full Guide
4. Why Now Is a Good Time to Upskill in Quantum
5. The Bottom Line
6. FAQs
7. References

Quantum Computing Jobs Are Rising & So Is the Demand for Skills

Quantum computing used to be seen as a niche area, mostly tied to academic labs or national research centres. But since around 2018, things have started to shift. More companies are now hiring for quantum-related roles, and more job listings include quantum terms.

This tells us that the field is gaining real traction and that interest in quantum computing isn’t just theoretical anymore.

Recent US job data from the Quantum Index Report 2025 by the MIT Initiative on the Digital Economy, based on Lightcast insights, shows two clear trends:

These two patterns reflect slightly different realities: one shows rising demand for actual quantum computing skills, while the other shows a broader awareness of quantum topics, with companies beginning to take the technology more seriously, even if they’re not hiring specialists just yet.

Quantum Mentions vs. Quantum Skills

The Lightcast dataset splits job activity into two categories:

• Quantum mentions: These are listings where the word “quantum” shows up, like in descriptions of quantum encryption, qubits, quantum sensors, or even future planning around Shor’s algorithm. These roles don’t always require technical knowledge, but they still suggest that the employer is aware of developments in the space.
• Quantum skills: These are listings that ask for hands-on experience. For example, working with quantum chemistry software, quantum imaging tools, or quantum algorithm simulators like Qiskit Aer. These roles often need a background in quantum mechanics, computer science, or both.

Between 2011 and 2017, these figures stayed relatively flat; there was steady progress, but not much public or commercial momentum.

Then, in early 2018, the market turned a corner. Mentions of quantum technologies began rising sharply, and within two years, they peaked.

This jump lined up with several big tech announcements and breakthroughs in quantum hardware, which helped bring the topic into the mainstream.

Job ads asking for quantum computing skills also started increasing around that time, but more gradually.

Instead of spiking, they followed a steady upward trend. Since 2011, these roles have tripled in share, and the data shows they continue to grow quarter by quarter.

Why the Numbers Matter

The split between “mentions” and “skills” may seem small, but it matters when looking at careers in quantum computing.

Mentions often reflect long-term strategy. For example, a company may not be hiring a quantum physicist yet, but if their cybersecurity team is referencing quantum-proof encryption, it’s a sign they’re planning ahead.

These mentions help show where quantum technologies are entering the conversation, especially in sectors like defence, finance, telecoms, and data infrastructure.

In contrast, skill-based roles mean there’s already active work happening – designing algorithms, simulating quantum behavior, or supporting quantum research within a broader R&D team. These are the quantum jobs that offer opportunities for people with the right training.

So, even though not every company is hiring quantum engineers right now, a growing number are building awareness. That shift creates a stronger foundation for long-term quantum computing careers.

What Are the Most In-Demand Skills for Quantum Computing Jobs?

Building a career in quantum computing doesn’t always require a PhD, but it does necessitate a combination of technical knowledge, coding skills, and problem-solving abilities. Based on job listing trends, here are some of the quantum computing skills needed most often:

1. Mathematics & quantum theory: Many job ads still ask for a solid background in linear algebra, differential equations, and tensor calculus. A basic understanding of quantum theory also helps – things like superposition and entanglement often come up, even in roles that aren’t focused on research.
2. Programming languages: Not every job requires deep coding knowledge, but knowing how to use tools like Qiskit, Cirq, or Q# is becoming more common. These frameworks help you build and test quantum algorithms. Python is especially important since it’s the main language used in most quantum software and simulators.
3. Data analysis & simulation tools: Many employers look for people who can test and model quantum algorithms using tools like Qiskit Aer or QuTiP. These are useful in both research and industry settings. They’re often used to explore how a quantum program might behave before running it on actual hardware.
4. Transferable skills: Technical skills are only one part of the picture. Many employers also want people who can solve complex problems by thinking through difficult tasks that don’t always have clear steps. They also want people who can work across teams, communicating with physicists, engineers, and developers and helping ideas move smoothly between them.

Why Now Is a Good Time to Upskill in Quantum

Quantum computing is no longer just for academics. As industries start investing in practical applications, there’s growing demand for professionals who understand how quantum works, even if they’re not building quantum machines themselves.

So if you’re a software engineer, mathematician, physicist, or even a data scientist, now’s a smart time to start building quantum literacy.

Recent salary data shows that quantum jobs are among the highest-paying in tech, with an average of $131,000 in the US and top roles reaching $200,000+, as of July 2025.

Quantum computing careers are still evolving, but the foundations are being built now. If you start skilling up today, you’ll be better positioned to lead tomorrow.

The Bottom Line

Quantum computing jobs are starting to open up across many fields, not just research labs. As more companies explore this space, there’s a steady rise in demand for people with the right skills. These jobs in quantum computing often come with strong salaries and room to grow.

So, if you’re considering your next step, this could be the right time to expand your knowledge and prepare for the quantum future.

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