Staff Scientist - Quantum Applications

Job Description

Job Title: Staff Scientist – Quantum Applications. Location: Remote, United States

Responsibilities:

• Lead technical direction and provide architectural guidance across multiple quantum application projects.
• Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms for scientific and commercial applications, including computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.
• Collaborate with internal teams, customers, and partners to define and solve real-world quantum problems.
• Benchmark, evaluate, and publish results in peer-reviewed journals and conferences;
• Mentor junior team members and support high-impact initiatives, including collaborations with academic partners.

Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience in quantum computing, applied algorithms, or advanced scientific computing, or equivalent education and experience.
• Expertise in Python and/or C++, with hands-on experience in Qiskit or other quantum SDKs.
• Proven ability to develop and optimize quantum algorithms for computational chemistry, optimization, or machine learning.
• Track record of delivering innovative quantum solutions, including publications, open-source contributions, patents, or invited talks.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex quantum concepts to diverse audiences;
• Experience leading technical efforts from problem definition to solution delivery.

Preferred:

• PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience with end-to-end ownership of quantum application projects.
• Knowledge of variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads on CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs.
• Experience developing algorithms for NISQ systems and fault-tolerant quantum computers;
• Proficiency in quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis.
• Prior experience working with customers, industry partners, or government sponsors.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Base salary range: $167,808 – $219,704 per year.
• Total compensation includes base, bonus, and equity;
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) with matching, unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and home technology stipend.

Other Information:

• Remote position with up to 10% travel for customer engagements and conferences.
• IonQ is a global leader in trapped-ion quantum computing, delivering advanced systems like IonQ Tempo and IonQ Forte Enterprise.
• The company is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer;
• U.S. candidates must meet export control requirements to work on certain technical projects.
• Apply via the IonQ careers website for consideration.