Physicist - System Integration

Job Description

Job Ttle: Staff Physicist – Product System Integration. Location: Bothell, WA – Onsite

IonQ is a leader in developing full-stack quantum computers using trapped-ion technology; Our mission is to advance quantum computing to solve complex real-world problems in medicine, materials science, AI, cryptography, finance, and beyond.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a technical lead for testing, integration, and commissioning of quantum computers.
• Design, build, and document tools and processes for validating and verifying current and future products.
• Contribute to the design, modeling, assembly, and characterization of trapped-ion quantum computers;
• Measure and analyze system performance and identify root causes of functional or performance issues.
• Collaborate with optical, mechanical, and subsystem engineers to optimize integration processes.
• Support remote builds through occasional travel and onsite system commissioning.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in quantum control or sensing, ideally with trapped ions or neutral atoms.
• Proficiency in Python or JavaScript;
• Strong hands-on skills working with hardware and systems.

Preferred:

• Experience aligning and characterizing diffraction-limited optical systems or interferometers.
• 10+ years of experience leading full lifecycle development of complex optical systems;
• Experience with manufacturing and testing software-controlled optomechanical systems.
• Familiarity with ion traps, ultra-cold neutral atoms, ultra-high vacuum, or cryogenic systems.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Matching 401(k) plan.
• Unlimited PTO and paid holidays.
• Parental/adoption leave;
• Legal insurance and home internet stipend.
• Pet insurance.
• Equity participation and performance bonuses.

Additional Information: Position requires eligibility to work with U.S. export-controlled technology (U.S. citizen, national, permanent resident, or certain refugee/asylee statuses); Role is based at IonQ’s Bothell, WA facility, with possible travel for remote builds.