Staff Scientist - Financial Services

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Staff Scientist – Quantum Financial Services. Location: College Park, MD; Bothell, WA; or Remote (U.S.)
Travel Requirement: Up to 10% (for customer and partner visits)

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of hybrid quantum applications that deliver measurable value to financial institutions.
• Shape and execute a multi-year roadmap for quantum financial services in collaboration with internal stakeholders;
• Develop and optimize quantum algorithms using tools like Qiskit, and integrate them into hybrid CPU/GPU/QPU platforms.
• Collaborate with system, compiler, and cloud teams to integrate quantum software into broader technology stacks;
• Represent IonQ at conferences and client meetings, communicating scientific advancements and practical solutions.
• Hire and mentor a team of scientists, driving growth and capability from within.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 13+ years of professional experience, including 7+ years in financial technology or quantitative finance.
• Proven leadership experience, including team management and roadmap development;
• Hands-on experience with quantum SDKs (Qiskit preferred) and strong understanding of hybrid computing.
• Demonstrated history of publishing high-impact research and scaling quantum software for industry use.
• Experience working in finance as a quant, trader, or financial technologist, or as a quantum solutions provider for financial clients.

Preferred:

• 10+ years of experience in financial application development.
• Familiarity with SDKs such as PennyLane, Cirq, Q#, or Torch Quantum;
• Experience deploying research-grade models into production systems.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills at technical conferences and client-facing engagements.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Base Salary: $162,920 – $213,304 (dependent on experience and location)
• Total Compensation: Includes bonus and equity package
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) matching;
• Unlimited PTO and paid holidays;
• Parental and adoption leave
• Legal and pet insurance
• Home internet stipend
• Equity in a fast-growing quantum technology company

This role requires U.S. export compliance. Candidates must be a U.S. Person (citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) or qualify for export licensing.