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. IonQs 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, youll 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 worlds best quantum computers to solve the worlds 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.

Youd 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.

Youd 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.

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 dont 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.