Staff Software Engineer @ IonQ

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 Staff Software Engineer, Integrated Photonics. As a Staff Software Engineer, 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 focus primarily on developing software to automate the design, simulation, testing, data storage and analysis of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for use in trapped-ion quantum computer systems. You will have the opportunity to work closely with the device design and testing teams to develop new optical systems based on integrated photonics. The software pipelines you build will help drive the overall development of a new and game-changing photonics technology to enable scalable quantum computing.

Responsibilities:

Develop and maintain software supporting the device design and simulation pipeline.
Develop databases and ETL tools to enable scientists to analyze simulation results.
Develop and maintain HPC workflows utilizing both on-premises and cloud computing infrastructure.
Ensure high-quality, scalable, well-tested software through architecture and code reviews.
Effectively self-manage projects, priorities, deadlines, and deliverables.
Identify, track, and mitigate execution roadblocks and technical risks. Work with engineers and scientists to estimate compute resource budgets based on expected simulation workload.
Provide clear, concise communication to management and team members.

You’d be a good fit with:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
3+ years of programming experience in a general-purpose programming language (like Python, TypeScript, Go, Rust, or C++).
2+ years of experience with databases, SQL, and NoSQL.
2+ years of industry experience developing software for automated CI/CD pipelines.
2+ years experience in major cloud services and high-performance computing.
Experience in working with technical experts outside of traditional software engineering, particularly electrical engineers and physicists.
Empathy: you’ll work closely with our internal team of physicists and chip designers who depend on our software every day.

You’d be a great fit if you also have the following:

MS or PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, or a related degree
3+ years in machine learning and/or mathematical optimization
Previous experience in areas like computer-aided design, statistical testing, modeling and mathematical optimization, and/or machine learning
A background in database and data management, infrastructure management via SLURM, Kubernetes, or another orchestration management tool
Experience with the design and simulation of integrated photonic chips and devices via Lumerical, COMSOL, Flexcompute, or similar
Experience with parallelizing code (OpenMP, CUDA/OpenCL, MPI, OneAPI, etc.)
Experience with image recognition and processing
Experience in writing codes in the laboratory to automate testbed for device characterization and data collection

Location:

This position can be remote or hybrid. IonQ’s bright, airy offices are in College Park, MD and Bothell, WA.

The salary range for this position is $123,191 - $161,289.

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. Beyond base pay, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component, as well as a range of benefit options found on our 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 plus paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

IonQ’s 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 one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will be expanding 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!

Compensation Overview

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

Benefits