Associate Physicist

Job Description

Job Title: Associate Physicist. Location: College Park, Maryland, United States‍

This role focuses on operating, maintaining, and improving commercial trapped-ion quantum computers; Recent graduates are encouraged to apply, as IonQ provides hands-on training in quantum computer operation and maintenance.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain high uptime and performance of commercial quantum computers
• Monitor, maintain, and improve state-of-the-art quantum hardware and software
• Ensure a strong and improving customer experience
• Build and automate tools to optimize system performance;
• Collaborate with physicists and engineers across teams
• Support development of tools for current and future quantum systems
• Participate in rotating 24/7 on-call schedules to keep systems operational

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in physics, engineering, or a related physical science
• Strong teamwork and communication skills in a distributed team environment
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment, laser stabilization, or AOMs
• Strong interest in learning new technologies;
• Passion for physics and quantum physics
• Formal training or coursework in statistics
• Ability to adapt in a fast-changing work environment
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including on-call rotations

Preferred:

• PhD in physics, engineering, or a related physical science
• At least 1 year of laboratory experience in atomic or optical physics
• Strong experience with Python or JavaScript;
• Background in data analysis, data science, or machine learning
• Software engineering experience

Compensation and Benefits:

• Base salary range: $81,000 to $106,050 USD
• Total compensation includes base salary, bonus, and equity

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company matching
• Unlimited paid time off and paid holidays
• Parental and adoption leave;
• Legal insurance
• Home internet stipend
• Pet insurance

Compensation may vary based on location, experience, and skill level. Salary ranges may change based on market data.

Additional Information:

• Very limited travel, only as needed
• IonQ headquarters is in College Park, Maryland
• Additional offices in Seattle (Bothell, WA), Toronto (Canada), and Basel (Switzerland)
• Future expansion into new domestic and international locations