Staff Software Engineer

Seattle, WA, United States

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 $197,459.10 to $230,368.95.

Our quantum computers perform calculations by shooting individual atoms floating in a vacuum with carefully modulated laser pulses—the better the pulse, the better the computation. We’re looking for a staff software engineer to help us make the best pulses on the planet. You’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to ensure we consistently deliver the best quantum gates in the world, helping drive the technical direction for our next-generation quantum computers.

Responsibilities:

Lead, design, architect, develop, test, deploy, maintain and improve major software components, systems, and features; being a small team, we count on each other to run with projects independently

Write high-quality, well-tested, production-ready code in Rust and other languages

Develop testing infrastructure for automated verification and validation

Assist in the career development of others, providing mentorship on advanced technical issues

Collaborate with an experienced interdisciplinary staff

Approach problems pragmatically

Help us continuously improve how we do things

The ideal candidate will have experience leading or contributing to multiple simultaneous product development efforts, projects, and initiatives. You’ll be able to balance technical expertise and savvy with strong business judgment to make great technology choices. You’ll strive for simplicity and demonstrate significant creativity and incisive judgment.

You’d be a good fit with:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Math, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience

10+ years experience in software development in one or more general purpose programming languages, with strong knowledge of at least one systems programming language (e.g. C, C++, Rust)

Excellent engineering skills in a few key areas:

Digital signal processing, both mathematical foundations and bench experience in either image processing, RF, or optics

Background in control theory and implementation of control theory algorithms

Programmatic data acquisition from oscilloscopes and/or spectrum analyzers

5+ years applied digital signal processing experience, with a proven ability to develop, define, design and implement signal processing solutions in complex systems and real-time hardware

Solid mathematical and analytical skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

A love of collaborating in an interdisciplinary environment

Empathy and customer focus: you'll work closely with our internal team of physicists who depend on our software every day

You’d be a great fit with:

Master’s degree or PhD in Engineering, Physics, Math, Computer Science, or related technical field

Experience working with RF or Optics

Foundational knowledge of control theory algorithms and their derivation and application to one or more application domains

Location:

IonQ’s operating system teams are based in our bright, airy offices in College Park, MD and Seattle, WA. While we can be flexible for the right candidate, colocation supports our highly collaborative and interactive work with the hardware teams building the world’s best quantum computers.

Our HQ is located in College Park, Maryland and we are a 15 minute metro ride from Washington DC. We have also recently announced our new manufacturing and production facility in the Seattle, Washington area. We are actively building out teams in the Washington D.C., Seattle and Toronto metro areas and will want to locate you in one of these geographies. 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.