UNPAID VOLUNTEER - Principal Technology Officer (PTO) - Quantum Computing

The Blockchain Climate Institute seeks a volunteer Principal Technology Officer to lead quantum computing strategy and team management for climate-focused projects.

This senior volunteer position reports directly to the Chief Technology Officer and provides strategic and technical direction for quantum computing initiatives across all institute projects. The role focuses on driving innovation at the intersection of emerging technologies and climate action.

Responsibilities

• Establish and implement the quantum computing strategy and roadmap for all institute initiatives
• Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate the quantum computing technology team
• Research best practices and identify practical applications for quantum computing
• Design, develop, test, and deploy quantum computing applications and solutions
• Ensure technology products meet quality, reliability, security, and scalability standards
• Monitor solution performance and provide recommendations for improvement
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including partners, sponsors, and beneficiaries
• Stay current with trends in emerging technologies, climate, and sustainability
• Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships
• Represent the institute at conferences, present research findings, and engage with key stakeholders

Requirements

• Strong oral communication skills and ability to build relationships across professional boundaries
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage competing demands under pressure
• Proven experience in computing or math-related Agile technology projects
• Experience building constructive stakeholder relationships
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to drive projects forward
• Experience designing, planning, and facilitating independent research within tight deadlines
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal skills for persuasive communication
• Strong technical expertise in quantum computing, including proficiency in programming languages, frameworks, and data analysis tools
• Experience developing and deploying applications using cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
• Experience leading technology teams and projects using agile methodologies, including budgeting and documentation
• Passion for climate and sustainability issues with a willingness to learn beyond technology
• Bachelor's or master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related field
• Fluent English proficiency
• At least 5 years of professional experience in quantum computing or a related field

Nice to have

• Portfolio of supported open-source GitHub projects
• Aptitude in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish

What the company offers

• Opportunity to develop skills in research, presentation, writing, and professional etiquette
• Mentally stimulating work that provides a sense of purpose
• Career advancement through professional connections and real-world experience at the intersection of climate and emerging technologies
• Development of long-lasting professional relationships

About the company

The Blockchain Climate Institute operates as an international volunteer-led think tank advocating for blockchain and data technologies in the global fight against climate change. The organization serves as an expert platform to help governments, inter-governmental organizations, and corporates navigate the complex landscape of emerging technologies for environmental benefit. The institute focuses on rigorous research and analysis to enable informed decision-making within the climate action network.

• International volunteer-led organization focused on climate advocacy
• Expert platform supporting governments and organizations in technology adoption for environmental good
• Commitment to rigorous research and analysis for informed climate action decisions