Staff Optical 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. 

We are looking for a Staff Optical Engineer for our optical and laser systems team. As a member of the engineering organization, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems. 

In this role you will collaborate with a highly interdisciplinary team of atomic physicists, optical engineers, opto-mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, cryo-system engineers, thermal engineers, and program managers to influence, design, and build our upcoming products. You will contribute across the entire product lifecycle from conceptual design through first engineering units. You’ll develop requirements, perform trade studies, and design our current and next generation hardware for our quantum computers.

Responsibilities:

• Work in a (small,) cross-functional project team to design, develop and build Optical and Laser systems hardware for electro-opto-mechanical assemblies
• Conceptualize and analyze complex opto-mechanical assemblies, create theoretical models, conduct empirical confirmation & perform computer assisted simulations.
• Work with optical and engineering team to integrate the laser and imaging hardware into the quantum computer
• Analyze and test product designs. Including development of DOEs, data collection, and data analysis
• Provide technical support to Vendors by generating and/or reviewing bills of materials, building documentation, assembly and test fixtures, test procedures, and driving anomalies and non-conformances to closure
• Design optical alignment processes and evaluate optical manufacturing methods
  
  

You’d be a good fit with:

• B.S. in Optical Engineering, Optical Design, or another relevant degree
• 10+ years of experience designing optical systems
• 10+ years of experience developing overall product architecture
• A broad optical background with fluency in Zemax/Code V (or equivalent) and extensive experience implementing complex tolerance models and performing sensitivity analysis.
• Experience developing specifications for optical/optomechanical/optoelectronic assemblies
• Experience developing systems and processes for optical alignment and metrology for optical elements and optical systems preferred
• Knowledge of precision optical/mechanical alignment tools and techniques
• Able to contribute to product development road maps and long-term product vision
• Good knowledge of optical metrology and optical manufacturing processes
• Excellent verbal and written communications, presentation, and documentation skills are required
• Excellent cross functional communication skills and comfortable working in diverse teams.
• Experience with product development lifecycle including design verification, design validation, and design transfer
• Demonstrated experience with industry and design best practices
  
  

You’d be a great fit with:

• M.S. / PhD. in Optical Engineering, Laser physics, or another relevant discipline
• 7+ years of industry experience developing optical products 
• In addition to all of the above, you have experience with AMO physics, low pressure/temperature material properties and/or acousto-optic devices
• Knowledge and experience with complex optical systems, lasers, free-space optical systems and components
• Experience/success in interacting with suppliers directly, collaboration with supply chain sourcing, fostering partnerships for critical development and risk reduction
• Extra bonus points for direct Quantum computing or Quantum networking experience

Location: This role will work onsite at our office located in Bothell, WA.
Travel: Up to 20% travel, domestic and international are possible
Job ID: 1082

The approximate base salary range for this position is $147,336 - $192,901. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.