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Senior Physicist - AMO Physics

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 Senior Physicist with experience in experimental AMO physics.  As a member of the Distributed Quantum Computing department of IonQ, you’ll be part of an interdisciplinary 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 be part of the team researching new technologies to scale our trapped ion quantum computers and lay the foundation for future quantum networks.

Responsibilities: 

  • Independently and collaboratively design, build and operate R&D test assemblies to support the next generation of the world’s best quantum computers
  • Contribute to the system design, modeling, assembly, and characterization of a trapped ion quantum computer
  • Measure and analyze data on the performance of a trapped ion quantum computer
  • Closely collaborate with engineers and physicists to develop techniques to numerically model, understand and continually improve quantum computer performance

You’d be a good fit with: 

  • PhD in experimental physics or related field, with deep knowledge of atomic and optical physics
  • Experience designing and running complex AMO systems and experiments
  • Experience aligning and characterizing diffraction-limited optical systems
  • Experience with controlling experiments using Python
  • Demonstrated experimental experience with one or more of the following specialities: atomic physics systems, diffraction limited optical systems, lasers (from UV to IR), quantum sensors, atomic clocks, vacuum systems


You’d be a great fit with: 

  • 5+ years experience in applying research to relevant industry problems
  • Experience working with ion traps, ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic systems
  • Experience with Python programming for data capture and data analysis
  • Experience using the Artiq framework to control quantum hardware
  • Engineering or systems engineering experience in transforming a complex physical system into a product


Location:
This role is based onsite at our headquarters in College Park, MD.
Travel: Up to 10%
Job ID: 1004

The approximate base salary range for this position is $107,123 - $140,251. 

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, a quick 15-minute metro from 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, or Toronto. 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.

The position you are applying for may 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 status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls.  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!


 

Average salary estimate

$123687 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$107123K
$140251K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

IonQ develops general-purpose quantum computers. Founded in 2015, IonQ is headquartered in College Park, Maryland.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 16, 2025

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