Staff FPGA 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 FPGA Engineer. As a Staff FPGA 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. You will design complex FPGA solutions for our trapped ion quantum computer control systems. You will perform top-level requirements definition, system specification, design, coding, and simulation. You will contribute to the development of our automated build and verification process for an RTL CI/CD pipeline. You'll enjoy hands-on lab work, collaborating with a team, learning technical topics, working across multiple technical domains, and be uniquely positioned to help us reach the next horizon in quantum computing.
Responsibilities:
- Work independently to design and implement FPGA-based signal processing and control functions.
- Develop functional block specifications based on system-level requirements
- Perform logic design using Vivado (Verilog or VHDL, IP Catalog, and Block Design)
- Perform logic simulation/verification using simulation/verification software
- Simulate signal processing and control algorithms in software
- Implement and test firmware for high-speed waveform generation and digital control loops
- Write test procedures, perform unit and system-level testing, debug, and document test results
You’d be a good fit with:
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, physics, mathematics or other relevant technical field.
- 8+ years of technical experience in FPGA development
- Detailed knowledge of FPGA-based signal processing (DDC/DUC, DDS, FIR/IIR filters)
- Fluency in modeling and simulation using Python and/or MATLAB/Simulink
- Experience in FPGA verification
- Experience with System Verilog
- Experience with code coverage and functional coverage
- Experience with verification tools such as Synopsys, Cadence, and Modelsim
- Knowledge of common peripheral interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, and USB
- Familiarity with Xilinx Ultrascale+ MPSOC devices
- Use of JTAG and Integrated Logic Analyzer for system debug
- Proficient with signal generators, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other complex lab equipment
- Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communications skills.
- Ability to mentor junior engineers
- Success working collaboratively in a team environment
You’d be a great fit with:
- Experience with ASIC design and tapeout process
- Experience implementing digital control (PID, feedforward, MIMO) algorithms in FPGA firmware
- Prior experience with high-speed interface design and verification, including ADC/DAC (DDR and JESD204B), DDR3/4 MIG, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet
- Working knowledge of embedded Linux and Linux device drivers
- Experience using GitLab for automated firmware build and validation
- Experience working closely with board design and software development teams
Location: This is a hybrid role based at our office located in Bothell, WA, with the option to work remotely occasionally.
Travel: Up to 15%
Job ID: 1178
The approximate base salary range for this position is $128,119 - $167,740. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.
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, just outside of 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, Toronto, Canada, and Basel, Switzerland. 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.
US Technical Jobs. The position you are applying for will 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” (e.g., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum) status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Please note that in the absence of confirming you are a U.S. Person for export control and government contracts work purposes, IonQ may choose not to apply for a license or decline to use a license exception (if available) for you to access export-controlled technology that may require authorization, and similarly, you may not qualify for government contracts work that requires U.S. Persons, and IonQ may decline to proceed with your application on those bases alone. 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.
US Non-Technical Jobs. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. 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!