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.

The salary range for this position is $133,056 to $174,191.

We are looking for a Senior Scientist specializing in quantum characterization and benchmarking. This role will be located at our new facility in Seattle, Washington. On the System Performance and Architecture 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.

In this role you will work to develop benchmarks to measure the performance of our trapped-ion quantum processors. You will help design processor-level benchmarks, and will provide technical analysis of benchmarking strategies and protocols. Your work will inform the selection of performance measures and targeted engineering requirements. You will work creatively as a part of a team to help mentor peers in a continuous learning environment.

Responsibilities:

Develop many-qubit benchmarks capable of assessing the holistic performance of a quantum processor.
Tailor benchmarks to be sensitive to specific types of noise as determined by component-level characterizations and first principles.
Work collaboratively with other physicists and software engineers to implement characterization and benchmarking methods within a larger analysis framework.
Collaborate with sub-system teams to develop technical requirements for engineered systems.
Explore scientific literature and contribute to the dissemination and development of learning resources.
Plan and lead technical projects involving multiple stakeholders from different teams within the organization.

You’d be a good fit with:

PhD in Quantum Physics, Engineering or a related field and 2+ years professional experience
Demonstrated experience in the characterization and benchmarking of quantum processors, specifically in the design of benchmarking protocols and the interpretation of their evaluation.
Specialization in quantum information theory, quantum computing, or similar.
Python programming

You’d be a great fit with:

4+ years experience in a professional or academic setting
Experience in a large corporate or national lab organization
Experience with trapped ion systems
Experience with programming in modern C++ or Rust
Experience running algorithms on quantum computers (submitting jobs, collecting & analyzing results).

The base pay component of the offer will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. The total compensation package may include other elements dependent on the position and level. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment. Beyond base pay, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component, as well as a range of benefit options which can be found on our site at ionq.co/jobs. Some of our benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, home internet stipend, a generous PTO plan, parental/adoption leave, 401K, medical, dental and vision plans as well as paid holidays.

Our HQ is located in College Park, Maryland which is only a 15-minute metro ride from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in the Seattle, Washington area. Depending on the position, you may be required to be located near our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will be expanding into additional geographies both domestically and internationally so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all, while at the same time 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 in which any individual 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, color, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, and 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 this team and mission, we encourage you to apply!

Compensation Overview

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

Benefits