Your mission
As Software Engineering Manager – SaaS & Platform at planqc, you will shape how state-of-the-art quantum computing technology is turned into robust, scalable software products, including performance-critical systems such as simulators and compilers that bridge quantum hardware and real-world applications. You will lead a growing team at the intersection of customers, industry partners, and our quantum computing systems, with direct impact on how our technology is used in practice.
Your mission is to guide the team through its next phase of growth, building strong foundations for reliable delivery while scaling structures, processes, and technical excellence. The role is well suited for experienced software engineers as well as engineering managers who want to retain strong ownership of technical and architectural direction.
Key responsibilities
- Build and foster a strong, inclusive engineering culture.
- Lead and develop the SaaS and platform engineering team as it scales.
- Co-own the product vision and roadmap in close collaboration with product and business stakeholders.
- Guidearchitectural and technical decisions across performance-critical systems, including simulators and compilers.
- Ensure reliable delivery through clear planning, prioritization, and communication.
- Support project proposals and public funding applications.
Your profile
Your expertise and skills Values & mindset - Ownership mindset and comfort with complex challenges.
- Interestin building forward-looking products and bringing deep-tech innovations into industrial applications.
Technical expertise - Ability to architect and technically guide large-scale, backend-heavy software systems using Python.
- Ability to guide architectures for performance-critical and algorithmically complex systems, such as simulators or compilers.
- Strong understanding of modern software engineering practices for production systems.
- Familiarity with cloud-native architectures and modern engineering toolchains (e.g.CI/CD, testing, DevOps).
Leadership & collaboration - Willingnessto take on technical andpeopleleadership responsibilities.
- Strong communicationand collaboration skills.
- Ability to align engineering priorities with product and business goals.
- Previousmanagement experiencedesirablebut notrequired.
Practical requirements - Fluent in English and German (spoken and written).
- Valid work permit for Germany or the EU.
What makes you stand out (not required) - Prior experience in a startup or research-driven environment.
- Experience working with funding applications or R&D projects.
- Experience with quantum technologies
Why us?
planqc, founded in 2022 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is a pioneering quantum computing startup based in Garching near Munich. We specialize in developing highly scalable neutral-atom quantum computers, utilizing individual atoms as qubits.
Here’s why you’ll love being part of our journey:
- Cutting-Edge Innovation: At planqc, you’ll work with state-of-the-art technology, using individual atoms as qubits to build highly scalable quantum computers. Our unique approach combines precision from the world’s best atomic clocks, quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates. Together, we’re creating the fastest path to industry-relevant quantum advantage.
- Impactful Projects: Join us as we develop groundbreaking quantum systems and software, including a 1,000-qubit computer for the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ), a bespoke quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and quantum algorithms for several DLR projects.
- Empowered by Excellence: With notable advisors and board members like Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM) and Professor Ann-Kristin Achleitner, we’re guided by exceptional leadership. Our Series A funding of €50 million allows us to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
- Dynamic Work Culture: We value innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team of around 100 brilliant minds works from locations in Garching, Ulm, and Innsbruck, fostering an environment where creativity meets ambition.
- Recognition and Growth: planqc’s achievements are celebrated globally. From winning the German Startup Award in 2023 to being named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2024, you’ll be part of a company that’s making history.
- Work-Life Synergy: Whether it’s through team events, after-work socials, or opportunities to attend quantum conferences worldwide, you’ll find a supportive community that values both your professional and personal growth.
