Staff System Engineer
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.
The salary range for this position is $133,046 to $174,192.
We are looking for a Staff level System Engineer to join a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ in building the world’s best quantum computers. In this role, you will play a pivotal role in the design and development of complex hardware for cutting-edge quantum computer systems. The successful candidate will bring at least 10 years of systems engineering expertise and a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions for high-tech projects. As a staff systems engineer, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and physicists to drive the success of our quantum computing initiatives.
Responsibilities:
- Support the design and development of quantum computer system requirements and specifications, including subsystem design, integration, and test
- Synchronize the R&D team throughout program shaping, concept of operations development, architecture definition, and requirements derivation activities, effectively translating system needs into actionable engineering solutions
- Develop and select engineering tool suites to capture system architectures and provide recommendations for model-based engineering, enabling efficient and accurate system development
- Lead the analysis and decomposition of system and subsystem requirements, driving the development of comprehensive interface control documents to facilitate seamless integration and cooperation between components
- Conduct trade studies to support requirement derivation and assist in selecting and defining design elements, ensuring that the system's architecture aligns with project objectives
- Develop and manage the tracking and reporting of system key performance parameters, providing insights and assessments to guide decision-making and ensure project success
- Provide support throughout the assembly, integration, and test process, including system-level testing, to verify that requirements are met and the system operates optimally
- Contribute to the execution of program design and readiness reviews, leveraging your expertise to ensure the technical excellence and compliance of deliverables
- Support the operation of developmental systems and subsystems, promptly identifying and documenting any issues to facilitate timely resolution
- Ability to travel up to 20% of the time, if not located onsite to support testing and operational responsibilities
You’d be a good fit with:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or related field
- Minimum 10 years of relevant systems engineering experience in the design and development of complex hardware systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate stakeholder needs into technical requirements
- Demonstrated proficiency in engineering tool suites and model-based engineering practices
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, facilitating effective collaboration with cross-functional teams
- Experience in technical performance tracking and reporting
- Knowledge of system integration and test processes, including reporting
- Familiarity with program design and readiness reviews
You’d be a great fit with:
- M.S. or PhD in Engineering, Physics, or related field
- Extensive experience in the design and assembly of systems, in the field of quantum computing or a related area
- Experience providing technical leadership in a multidisciplinary team setting
- Proficiency in Python, Java, Matlab, or similar programming
- Experience in managing vendor relationships and procurement
- INCOSE Systems Engineering Professional (SEP) certification, Defense Acquisition University (DAU) certification, or similar
Our HQ is located in College Park, Maryland and we are a 15 minute metro ride from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in the Seattle, Washington area. Depending on the position, you may be required to be located in Washington DC, Seattle, Washington or the Toronto, Canada area. However, IonQ will be expanding into additional geographies both domestically and internationally so don’t let this stop you from applying.
At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for all, while at the same time 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 in which any individual 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, color, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, and military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
The base pay component of the offer will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. The total compensation package may include other elements dependent on the position and level. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment. Beyond base pay, total compensation includes a range of health insurance options and other benefits which can be found on our site at ionq.co/jobs. Some of our benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, home internet stipend, a generous PTO plan, parental/adoption leave, 401K, dental and vision plans and paid holidays.
If you are interested in being a part of this team and mission, we encourage you to apply.
