About the role
D-Wave is seeking a Senior Algorithm Researcher to help shape and deliver cutting-edge optimization solutions that solve large-scale, real-world problems. In this role, you will design and implement complex algorithms and heuristics as part of our Algorithms, Performance, and Tools (APT) team, working closely with scientists, engineers, and domain experts. Your work will directly impact the development of high-performance optimization solvers and quantum-accelerated services.
What you'll do
- Develop new features, algorithm improvements and bug fixes for D-Wave optimization solvers.
- Design, implement, and refine advanced optimization algorithms — including heuristics and exact methods — for large-scale combinatorial problems.
- Lead projects and technical initiatives from concept to delivery, requiring minimal oversight beyond strategic alignment.
- Contribute to the architecture and development of our proprietary solvers and open-source optimization modeling framework
- Collaborate cross-functionally with product, engineering, and professional services teams to build and tailor solutions to real customer needs.
- Stay informed on emerging research in discrete optimization and hybrid quantum-classical algorithms; evaluate and incorporate promising ideas into our solver stack.
- Proactively identify limitations and opportunities for performance improvements within existing codebases and processes.
About You
- Graduate degree in Operations Research, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or related field or equivalent experience
- 5+ years of experience solving complex problems using algorithmic and optimization techniques in an applied setting
- Demonstrated experience in developing solvers in at least one of these fields: Constraint Based Local Search, Constraint Programming, Mixed Integer Programming, Routing / Scheduling engines, SAT solvers
- Proven ability to implement algorithms in C++ and Python
- Experience in combinatorial algorithms and discrete optimization; experience with Gurobi, SCIP, CPLEX, Hexaly, OR-Tools, or similar platforms
- Up-to-date understanding of the latest approaches in heuristic and complete methods for discrete optimization
- Demonstrated ability to scope and estimate work effectively; able to foresee potential obstacles and adapt plans proactively
- Strong technical communication skills — able to present complex ideas clearly and collaborate across disciplines
- A mindset of continuous improvement — able to recognize inefficiencies in tooling or processes and advocate for constructive change
- Creative problem-solver who takes ownership, exercises sound judgment, and thrives in technically demanding environments
A D-Waver's DNA
- We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
- We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
- We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
- As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.
Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:
We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.
During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture) offerings. The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.
Inclusion:
We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.
The Fine Print:
No 3rd party candidates will be accepted
It is D-Wave policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.
Job seekers should be aware of fraudulent job offers from online scammers and only apply to roles listed on D-Wave Careers site using our applicant system. Note: We do not use text messaging or third-party messaging apps to communicate with applicants and will never ask for fees or financial commitment, so please exercise caution if you are approached in this way. Authentic communications will come from an @dwavesys.com email.
For more information, please read our full Statement Regarding Job Recruiting Fraud Scams.
D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NASDAQ: QBTS) is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. It is the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the first and only to offer dual-platform quantum computing products and services, spanning both annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies. D-Wave’s mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum today through enterprise-grade systems available on-premises and via its Leap™ quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations across commercial, government, and research sectors trust D-Wave to address complex computational challenges using quantum computing. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how D-Wave is shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.