IonQ is developing the worlds most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.

We are looking for a Senior Physicist to join our Product Engineering System Integration team whose main task is to commission, calibrate and validate quantum control operations and automated quantum algorithm retrieval and execution by our quantum computers. As a member of the System Integration Team, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems. You’ll work closely with the test and build teams to perform system level optical, mechanical and electrical integration and optimization tasks. You will work closely with optical and mechanical engineers to develop and integrate tooling and processes to optimize your work. You will work with technical leaders across the organization to identify and eliminate pain points and help inform future system design to support faster system commissioning. You have the ability to work primarily from the office and travel to support remote builds.

Responsibilities:

Serve as a technical lead on the Product Engineering team for test, integration and commissioning of the quantum computers.
Build the tools and processes and documentation to expedite validation and verification of current and future products
Contribute to the system design, modeling, assembly, and characterization of a trapped ion quantum computer
Measure and analyze data on the performance of a trapped ion quantum computer
Use holistic system knowledge and data to identify root cause functional and performance deficiencies and work with different subsystem engineering teams to remediate and improve overall system excellence.

You’d be a good fit with:

Master’s or PhD degree in optical engineering, electrical engineering, applied physics or a related field
3+ years of experience in quantum control or sensing preferably of trapped ions or neutral atoms
Experience with either javascript or python programming.
Strong desire to be hands-on, with ability to spend the majority of your time working on hardware and systems with the team and being involved at all levels of detail.

You’d be a great fit with:

Experience aligning and characterizing diffraction limited optical systems and interferometers
6+ years of experience leading full-lifecycle development of complex optical systems and experiments.
Experience with concepts and methods of manufacturing and testing of complex software-controlled optomechanical systems
Experience working with ion traps or ultra-cold neutral atoms, ultra-high vacuum, and cryogenic systems.

Location: This role will work onsite at our office located in Bothell, WA.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $115,692 - $151,471.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

IonQs HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, a quick 15-minute metro from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!