Staff Quantum Control Hardware 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 Quantum Control Hardware Engineer to join our Networking, Sensing, and Security division. As a Staff 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 and networked systems to solve the world’s most complex problems.
In this role, you will design the critical physical layer interface for next-generation quantum networking nodes and high-precision sensing devices. You will build the low-noise, high-precision mixed-signal hardware necessary to control optical sources and read single-photon detectors with the fidelity required for secure quantum communication and entanglement distribution. This is an exciting opportunity to define the hardware architecture that will enable the future of the quantum internet and ultra-secure communications.
Responsibilities:
- Design and develop low-noise, high-precision mixed-signal circuit boards (DACs/ADCs) to drive optical modulators and laser sources for quantum networking protocols.
- Engineer ultra-low-noise readout interfaces for single-photon detectors used in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and sensing applications.
- Ensure hardware designs maintain the signal integrity and coherence required to preserve quantum states during transmission and transduction.
- Collaborate closely with FPGA Engineers to receive timing specifications and deliver signal conditioning specs for synchronization across network nodes.
- Lead the full hardware lifecycle from schematic capture and PCB layout to simulation, testing, and system integration within a sensing or security testbed.
- Troubleshoot complex hardware interactions to minimize phase noise and jitter in networking hardware.
- Mentor junior hardware engineers and drive technical decision-making regarding the physical layer architecture for security products.
You’d be a good fit with:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
- 8+ years of experience (or equivalent) in mixed-signal hardware design and PCB layout.
- Deep expertise in designing low-noise analog circuits and high-precision instrumentation.
- Proven experience with high-speed ADCs/DACs and signal conditioning chains.
- Proficiency with EDA tools for schematic capture and PCB layout (e.g., Altium, Cadence).
- Strong understanding of signal integrity, power integrity, and grounding in sensitive measurement systems.
You’d be a great fit with:
- Experience designing hardware for low-latency networks, optical communications, or quantum communications.
- Knowledge of precision sensing applications (e.g., magnetometry, atomic clocks).
- Familiarity with FPGA interfacing for high-speed protocol timing.
- Background in controlling fiber-optic components.
Location: This role will work onsite at our offices located in Bothell, WA or Vista, CA.
Travel: Up to 10%
Job ID: 1251
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!