IonQ

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 Test Engineer, Micro-optics. In this role, 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 focus primarily on designing and building the micro-optics and metalens testing infrastructure, including automated testing systems, for characterizing microlenses, micromirrors, and metalenses, which will be implemented in trapped-ion quantum computer systems. You will also have the opportunity to work with atomic physicists to innovate the trapped-ion quantum computer utilizing integrated photonics and micro-optics. The micro-optic devices you characterize will help drive the overall development of a new and game-changing photonics technology to enable scalable quantum computing.

Responsibilities:

• Design and build up the micro-optics testing infrastructure for characterizing microlenses, micromirrors, and metalenses, at both chip and wafer level for integration into trapped-ion quantum computing systems
• Automate the test pipeline by incorporating the design information from the micro-optics design pipeline, setting up the instruments, acquiring the experimental data, and analyzing the data using scripts to improve the test throughput.
• Conduct the characterization of microlenses, micromirrors, and metalenses, to feed back the experimental data to design engineers to improve the component performance
• Maintain high-quality, scalable, well-tested scripts through architecture and code reviews for the automated test workflow
• Identify, track, and mitigate execution roadblocks and technical risks
• Provide clear, concise communication to management and team members
• Collaborate with designers, the packaging team, and the system team to provide feedback on features that can enable or ease testing
• Develop a library of testing structures for comparison between different manufacturing platforms and processes, or apples-to-apples comparison of different designs for the same application
• Train other team members about the testing procedure for active devices and component characterization
• Procure testing equipment as needed, work with vendors to select the parts, evaluate options, install, and calibrate new items
• Teamwork: Strong team player with the ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, such as design engineers and physicists, who depend on the PIC testing results

You’d be a good fit with:

• Master in engineering or related field/discipline
• 3+ years of experience in the hands-on characterization of micro-optics, including microlenses and micromirrors.
• 2+ years of programming experience in a general-purpose programming language (like Python, Matlab, etc.)
• Experience using 3D CAD tools like Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks
• Experience with test instrumentation and methods for characterizing the microlenses and micromirrors
• Understanding of free-space optics and imaging systems
• Strong data processing, visualization, and organizational skills

You’d be a great fit with:

• Ph.D. in engineering or related field/discipline
• 5+ years of experience in the hands-on characterization of micro-optics, including microlenses, micromirrors, and metalenses.
• 3+ years of industry experience
• Experience with automating the testbed to improve the throughput
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment
• Experience with the packaging of micro-optical components
• Experience working with visible-light laser sources and fiber components
• Strong programming skills for data analysis and experimental automation software, and experience with version control systems such as git
• Familiarity with fabrication processes, design constraints, and metrology for micro-optics
• Experience with design, simulation, and CAD drawing of the micro-optics and metalenses, familiar with related software such as Zemax, Code V, and FDTD tools

Location: This role is based onsite at our headquarters in College Park, MD

Travel: Less than 10%

Job ID: 1023

The approximate base salary range for this position is $107,123 - $140,251. 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, a quick 15-minute metro from 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, or Toronto. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while 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 where individuals 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, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law.

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!