Software Engineering Manager - Control System

Your mission:
As Software Engineering Manager – Control System at planqc, you will lead and support a growing team of engineers working closely with the hardware development of our neutral-atom quantum computer. You will ensure their personal growth, technical excellence, and delivery impact while driving the development of the control system software stack. In close collaboration with cross-functional teams, particularly hardware engineers and senior leadership, you will align technical execution with company strategy and product priorities, while fostering a healthy and collaborative engineering culture. 

Key responsibilities
 
People Management 
• Lead and support a team of engineers.
• Run regular 1:1s, mentoring, and career development conversations.
• Provide performance feedback and conduct evaluations.
• Hire, onboard, and retain top engineering talent.
• Foster a healthy, diverse, and collaborative team culture.

Technical & Project Management 
• Drive execution through planning, prioritization, and delivery monitoring.
• Align team goals with company and product priorities.
• Ensure engineering quality standards (testing, reviews, documentation).
• Facilitate design discussions and guide technical decisions.
• Coordinate dependencies with hardware and software teams and proactively remove blockers.
• Communicate progress, risks, and needs to senior leadership.
• Support preparation and submission of new project and funding applications.

Your profile:
Necessary requirements: 
• 3–5 years of experience in engineering leadership, or strong track record as senior engineer with team coordination experience.
• Solid technical background in embedded systems, control software, software architecture, distributed systems, and industry experience in hardware-related development.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop tests and integration with experimental hardware.
• Experience working in or with optics labs.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with proven ability to build trust and motivate teams.
• Experience with project management practices and agile workflows.
• Fluent in English (spoken and written); German is a plus.
• Valid work permit for Germany or the EU.

Supplementary skills: 
• Background in electronics, FPGA programming, or real-time systems.
• Prior experience in a startup or research-driven environment.
• Experience working with funding applications or R&D projects.

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 50 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.