Research Technician III (Fridge & Payload Operations) at D-Wave Quantum Inc. – Burnaby, British Columbia

D-Wave (NYSE: QBTS), D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our quantum computers — the world’s largest — feature QPUs with sub-second response times and can be deployed on-premises or accessed through our quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our quantum systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

You can read more about our company and our innovations in the pages of The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Fast Company, MIT Technology Review, Forbes, Inc. Magazine, Wired and across many whitepapers.

At D-Wave, we’re helping customers realize the value of quantum computing today and are shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow.

About the role

D-Wave is seeking a Research Technician III, Fridge & Payload Operations. This role supports the installation, monitoring, and operation of dilution refrigerators used for quantum processor testing. You will work closely with the team lead to execute cooldowns, maintain cycle documentation, perform basic cryogenic tasks, and ensure payloads are installed and removed according to established procedures.

While this role focuses on fridge operations, you will also provide cross-team support as needed, helping ensure smooth operations across Sample Prep & Packaging, Lab Infrastructure & Reliability, and other Lab Operations (LabOps) sub-teams. This role provides hands-on experience with cryogenic systems, lab instrumentation, and experimental workflow execution under guidance.

What you'll do

• Support dilution refrigerator cooldowns and warmups by preparing systems, installing and removing payloads, and performing routine cryogenic operations including line purges, valve operations, thermometry checks, and cooldown monitoring
• Conduct magnetic screening at 300 K and 4 K, assist with resistance measurements, trace collection, and basic quality checks
• Record cooldown data, payload metadata, and system state transitions in LabOpsHub with accuracy, traceability, and attention to detail
• Provide first pass troubleshooting support for cryogenic system issues and assist with basic maintenance activities in coordination with the Lab Infrastructure & Reliability team
• Coordinate with Sample Prep & Packaging to confirm payload readiness and collaborate with Controls & LabOps Tools to support data capture, monitoring, and operational improvements
• Follow established procedures consistently, observing and learning from senior team members to develop technical skills, time management, and familiarity with lab workflows
• Actively participate in team knowledge sharing, take ownership of assigned tasks, and escalate challenges to supervisors or experienced team members as needed
• Provide cross-team operational coverage to support overall LabOps throughput and continuity
• Continuously develop hands-on capabilities, cryogenic system knowledge, and understanding of company workflows and operational standards

What you'll bring

• 4+ years of demonstrated practical skills and applied technical knowledge; formal education (degree or technical diploma in engineering, physics, or related fields) is valued but not required
• 2+ years of hands-on technical experience
• Hands-on experience with lab instrumentation or technical lab environments
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, shift priorities smoothly, and maintain procedural rigor
• Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and record-keeping skills
• Comfort working around cryogenic or vacuum systems (experience is an asset but not required)
• Willingness to learn new procedures quickly and follow them consistently
• Strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills

Work Environment

• Onsite laboratory environment with frequent hands-on work around cryogenic systems
• Standing, climbing ladders, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and occasional irregular hours during cooldowns
• Routine use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to lab safety protocols
• Exposure to cryogenic fluids, vacuum systems, and instrumentation
• Hands-on work requiring precision, focus, and adherence to detailed procedures

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 Systems Inc. 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.

The base pay range for this role is:

55,840 - 83,760 CAD per year (Burnaby)