Senior Physicist - Quantum Networking

IonQ is developing the world's 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 Quantum Networking Team, who will develop and integrate the key technologies that push the frontiers of quantum networking forward. As a member, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to prototype the quantum networks that become our future products. You’ll work closely with other scientists and engineers to develop and optimize new technologies that enable high performance quantum networks. You will work with technical leaders across the organization to identify and eliminate pain points and help inform future system designs to support better and more stable system performance. 

Responsibilities:

• Serve on a team responsible for developing and integrating new photonic qubit quantum networks and testbeds
• Contribute to the system design, modeling, assembly, and characterization of quantum networks, subsystems, and components.
• Measure and analyze data on the performance of the quantum networks, and continuously improve their performance

You’d be a good fit with:

• A PhD in experimental quantum physics or related experience
• 3+ years of experience with quantum networks, quantum optics, and precision timing systems.
• 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 Vista, CA.
Travel: Occasional travel, up to 15%.
Job ID:  1010

The approximate base salary range for this position is $107,123 - $140,251.

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 US 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! 

IonQ's 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.

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions.  Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls.  Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. 

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