The quantum technology labor market experienced a significant downturn in November 2025. The preliminary report indicates a global decline in new job postings of 20.7% compared to October. This decrease was particularly pronounced in Europe, which saw a reduction of 29.5%, and North America, which faced a drop of 24.1%. In contrast, the Rest of the World managed to post an increase of 32.4% in new job postings (see Table 1 below).
This decline follows a more favorable period in October 2025, where the final report indicated a global increase of 9.5% in job postings. Europe recorded a rise of 15.6%, North America increased by 9.8%, while the Rest of the World experienced a setback with a 12.1% decrease (see Table 2 below).
When analyzing the broader context through the trailing 12-month count of new job postings (see Table 3 below), November 2025 shows a minimal overall increase of 0.3%. However, Europe and North America reported declines of 0.4% and 0.5%, respectively. The Rest of the World demonstrated a more favorable trend with a 6.3% increase.
The stark contrast between the month-to-month changes in Table 1 and the 12-month changes in Table 3 underscores the inherent volatility of the job market. Monthly data is often subject to greater fluctuations due to seasonal factors, economic shifts, and other immediate influences, whereas the trailing 12-month data tends to smooth out these variances, providing a more stable view of long-term trends.
For instance, while a 20.7% decline in November may seem alarming, it reflects a snapshot influenced by various factors specific to that month—such as seasonal hiring patterns and economic conditions. In contrast, the 0.3% increase over 12 months indicates a more stable trend, suggesting that despite short-term volatility, there may be underlying resilience in the market.
This volatility highlights the necessity for strategic talent management and workforce planning in the quantum technology sector. The sharp decreases in key regions raise concerns about employment sustainability, while growth in the Rest of the World suggests emerging opportunities that may warrant closer attention.
| Region | M/M Change |
|---|---|
| GLOBAL | -20.7% |
| EUROPE | -29.5% |
| NORTH AMERICA | -24.1% |
| REST OF WORLD | 32.4% |
| *REPORTING MONTH: November 2025 |
| Region | M/M Change |
|---|---|
| GLOBAL | 9.5% |
| EUROPE | 15.6% |
| NORTH AMERICA | 9.8% |
| REST OF WORLD | -12.1% |
| *REPORTING MONTH: October 2025 |
| Region | M/M Change |
|---|---|
| GLOBAL | 0.3% |
| EUROPE | -0.4% |
| NORTH AMERICA | -0.5% |
| REST OF WORLD | 6.3% |
| *REPORTING MONTH: November 2025 |
The Quantum Technology Workforce Monitor Report compiles data from publicly announced job openings within the quantum technology sector. This report is published monthly on the QED-C Blog. The next update will be available after January 5, 2025.