Software Developer Team Lead, Processor Software

About the role:

D-Wave is seeking a Software Developer Team Lead, Processor Software to build and guide a new “Integrated” sub-team within Processor Software. This small team will embed directly within Processor Development (PD) functional groups, delivering essential software tools, features, and one-on-one support for scientists. You will balance hands-on technical contributions with emerging leadership responsibilities, including mentoring developers, coordinating priorities, and supporting the team’s day-to-day work. During the first six months, you will focus primarily on technical work while building context before transitioning into the full scope of leadership responsibilities. 

About the team:

The Processor Software Team develops and maintains the internal software platform that powers the design, calibration, testing, and operation of our quantum processors. Working closely with Processor Development (PD) and Hardware Engineering (HWE), we build the tooling that scientists rely on to model devices, interface with hardware, and optimize processor performance. The team maintains a large, Common Lisp–based codebase (SBCL) and supports scientists directly through both feature development and hands-on software assistance. 

What you'll do:

• Develop and support software for quantum processor calibration, hardware interfaces, modeling, testing, and system monitoring  
• Design, implement, and optimize algorithms, libraries, interfaces, and other performance-critical components; analyze and improve existing code for reliability, efficiency, and maintainability  
• Collaborate with PD and HWE to clarify requirements, contribute to technical designs, and identify opportunities for workflow and tooling improvements 
• Provide day-to-day guidance, mentorship, and technical support to a small group of developers, including regular check-ins and support for their growth and daily tasks  
• Participate in hiring and onboarding, helping new team members ramp up effectively  
• Work with your manager to align priorities across sub-teams, escalate risks and challenges, and ensure goals and expectations remain consistent  
• Foster a collaborative problem-solving, and a positive working environment 
• Develop delegation, decision making, and leadership skills while operating within established team processes and policies 
• Build relationships with embedded groups and cross-functional partners, communicating progress, risks, and team accomplishments to managers and other leaders 

What you'll bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering physics, electrical/computer engineering, physics, or equivalent experience with strong physics aptitude 
• 6-8 years of relevant software experience 
• 1-2 years of experience mentoring or guiding team members in a technical environment 
• Experience developing and optimizing software in compiled languages (like C, C++ or Java) and in multithreaded environments  
• Ability to consider algorithm choice and how code is compiled when tuning performance 
• Experience designing, implementing, and optimizing interfaces to hardware systems 
• Proficiency with Git, Linux environment and collaborative development practices 
• Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills 
• A collaborative mindset, curiosity, flexibility, and motivation to learn 
• Ability to balance independent technical work with supporting others’ tasks and knowing when to seek guidance 

Bonus points for:

• Experience with Common Lisp or similar language, like Scheme, Clojure, or Scala 
• Familiarity with Emacs, Docker, Jenkins, SQL, MongoDB, InfluxDB, Grafana, Redis 

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:

146,182 - 219,273 per year (Burnaby)