Lead Ion Trap Design Engineer

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 $153,003 - $200,321.

We are looking for an Ion Trap Designer. As a trap designer in the QPU Micro-architecture team, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team which architects the core of our systems and 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. 

At IonQ, our sophisticated ion traps are the hearts of our quantum computers. Designing those traps to meet the needs and requirements of our future systems is a key to our success. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated ion trap designer to join our team of quantum computing experts. As a Trap Designer, you will play a critical role in the design and development of our future ion trap quantum computing platforms. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, simulating, and optimizing the trap structure and layout. You will work closely with our fabrication, optical and integration teams to bring out the full potential of IonQ's quantum systems.

Responsibilities:

• Design and optimize ion traps to perform operations such as ion loading, transport, qubit initialization, gate operations, and readout.
• Conduct analyses, trade studies, and feasibility assessments of prospective trap designs, focusing on their viability and potential benefits.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams comprising physicists, engineers, and researchers to integrate ion trap systems into larger experimental setups or commercial products. Effectively communicate technical concepts, design rationale, and experimental results to stakeholders through reports, presentations, and documentation.
• Stay abreast of advancements in ion trap technology, quantum computing, and related fields. Evaluate emerging techniques, materials, and methodologies for potential application in ion trap design to enhance performance or enable new functionalities.

You’d be a good fit with:

• PhD in physics, electrical engineering or a related field with experience operating or supporting experimental hardware.
• Background in designing surface electrode ion traps.
• Proficiency in numerical physics simulations.

You’d be a great fit with:

• 5+ year experience with trapped ion systems, or other atomic systems.
• Strong understanding of fundamental principles governing ion trap operation, including electrostatics, quantum mechanics, and ion dynamics.
• Proficiency with scientific programming and numerical optimization.
• Familiarity with experimental techniques such as laser cooling, Doppler cooling, and detection methods employed in ion trapping experiments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Location:

This position is located in our newest facility in Bothell, WA.

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!