Engineering Lead - Quantum Firmware (f/m/d)

eleQtron develops and operates full-stack quantum computers based on trapped-ion technology. Quantum computing is a new computing paradigm rapidly approaching commercial viability. Our unique approach combines laser-cooled trapped ions with microwave control and tailored magnetic fields. Our next-generation computing machines under development will be able to find solutions to problems that are out of reach today, thus enabling new innovative products and services for a brighter future.

We are looking for an Engineering lead (m/f/d) for our Quantum Firmware team.

Responsibilities:

As an Engineering Team Lead , you will play a crucial role in shaping the direction, structure, development, and integration of software systems that power our quantum computing technologies. In this leadership position, you will collaborate closely with hardware teams, project managers, and a diverse group of engineers and physicists to drive product development, define architecture, and foster a strong engineering culture.

• Take technical ownership: Define and drive the software architecture and code standards with a focus on modularity, scalability, and long-term stability.

• Steer backlog & product development: As Product Owner for your team, translate requirements from hardware, project management, and stakeholders into a clear and prioritized roadmap.

• Provide technical leadership: Define coding guidelines, support engineers in solving complex challenges, give architectural guidance, and remain hands-on when needed.

• Drive projects forward: Stay actively involved in firmware development, database structures, and automation initiatives, while also managing project progress.

• Be the interface: Work closely with hardware and project teams to ensure seamless integration of software with industrial hardware products.

• Lead stakeholder communication: Represent the engineering team in reviews, align with internal and external stakeholders, and ensure transparency on progress and challenges.

• Grow the team & culture: Contribute to hiring, onboarding, and building a collaborative, high-performing engineering culture.

• Optimize processes: Establish and continuously improve development processes, toolchains, and best practices, aligned with both software and hardware development.

What you will bring:

• Strong knowledge of modern development practices and methodologies (e.g., Agile, CI/CD, code quality standards).

• Experience in firmware development (drivers, real-time systems, hardware control), ideally with Python as a core language and a genuine interest in physics

• Broad technical understanding across embedded systems , database architectures, and automation workflows .

• A strategic mindset paired with strong execution skills; you can zoom out and lead the roadmap while keeping delivery on track with a strong hands-on approach

• Proven leadership experience in software development with a strong track record in building and guiding teams

• Experience or strong interest in product ownership: You enjoy owning and shaping the technical roadmap, managing the backlog and translating stakeholder needs into development priorities

• Strong English communication skills and enthusiasm for contributing to an innovative, interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of hardware and software.

We value (Bonus):

• Experience working in hardware-software integrated environments (e.g., embedded systems, IoT, robotics).

• Prior involvement in technical product ownership: Owning roadmaps, managing backlogs for translating requirements into engineering priorities and project management Experience.

• Familiarity with cross-functional collaboration across hardware, firmware, and project management teams

What you can expect from eleQtron:

• At the forefront : Work at the forefront of technology, where academic research meets commercial applications.

• A key leadership role in one of the most exciting technology fields of the future

• Competitive salary : We value our team members and therefore provide remunerations that reflect this, additionally rewarding achievements.

• Team spirit : In our international and diverse team, and with our regular team events, having fun at work is simply part of the culture.

• Further development : We want to grow together and so we offer our team members needs-based, individualized further training as well as plenty of room for personal development.

• Wellness Package: We offer health-promoting benefits such as fitness programs like UrbanSportsClub to support your well-being.

• Bike Leasing : Stay active and environmentally friendly, our bike leasing program makes it easy to get around while keeping fit.

• Moving Benefits : A warm welcome! We are happy to support employees who move for us with a bonus.

• Modern workplace : We have a high-quality infrastructure with laboratory space, offices and meeting rooms.