Senior Staff Architect, Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (USQC)

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 Senior Staff Architect, Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (USQC). As a Senior Staff Architect, 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 perform architecture trade studies and resource estimation for our effort to develop a long-term FTQEC utility-scale architecture. You will be responsible for synthesizing and running simulations, weaving the results into compelling narratives for reports and proposals, potentially in the context of government contracts. You will work with engineering and research teams to define and analyze the architectural roadmap for future generations of our quantum systems.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and perform architecture trade studies for fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Develop models and perform estimations for the physical resources required for utility-scale quantum computing.
• Synthesize, run, and analyze simulations to inform architectural decisions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, white papers, and proposals for both internal stakeholders and government contracts.
• Translate complex simulation results and architectural concepts into clear, persuasive narratives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system requirements and performance targets.
• Contribute to the strategic vision and long-term technical roadmap for IonQ's quantum computers.
  
  

You’d be a good fit with:

• PhD in Quantum Physics, Computer Science, Engineering or a related field with significant experience in quantum computing.
• 13+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated experience in quantum architecture research, including fault-tolerance and error correction.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and analyses.
  
  

You’d be a great fit with:

• 15+ years of experience in a professional or research setting.
• Direct experience with government contracts, including proposal writing and reporting.
• Deep expertise in quantum error correction codes and fault-tolerant protocols.
• Experience with large-scale system modeling and simulation on high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or C++ for scientific computing and simulation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for crafting compelling technical narratives.
• Experience with trapped-ion quantum systems

Location: This role can be based onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US.
Travel: Up to 25%
Job ID:  1140

The approximate base salary range for this position is $169,437 - $221,837. 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. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs.  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance! 

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, just outside of Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, Toronto, Canada, and Basel, Switzerland. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this