About the job
IonQ is at the forefront of revolutionizing quantum computing, developing the world's most advanced full-stack quantum computer powered by trapped-ion technology. We are transcending the boundaries of classical physics and current supercomputing capabilities to usher in a transformative era of computing. Our quantum systems are poised to enhance every facet of human existence. IonQ’s innovative technology is set to reshape industries such as healthcare, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more.
We invite a talented Staff Quantum Control Hardware Engineer to join our Networking, Sensing, and Security division. In this pivotal role, you will collaborate with a diverse team dedicated to advancing IonQ's mission of building the most powerful quantum computers and interconnected systems aimed at solving the world's most intricate challenges.
As part of this position, you will be responsible for designing the essential physical layer interface for next-generation quantum networking nodes and high-precision sensing devices. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating low-noise, high-precision mixed-signal hardware crucial for controlling optical sources and reading single-photon detectors. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the hardware architecture that will facilitate the quantum internet and ultra-secure communications.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop low-noise, high-precision mixed-signal circuit boards (DACs/ADCs) for driving optical modulators and laser sources for quantum networking protocols.
- Engineer ultra-low-noise readout interfaces for single-photon detectors utilized in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and sensing applications.
- Ensure hardware designs maintain the signal integrity and coherence necessary to preserve quantum states during transmission and transduction.
- Collaborate closely with FPGA Engineers to gather timing specifications and provide signal conditioning details for synchronization across network nodes.
- Lead the complete hardware lifecycle from schematic capture and PCB layout to simulation, testing, and system integration within a sensing or security testbed.
- Troubleshoot complex hardware interactions to reduce phase noise and jitter in networking hardware.
- Mentor junior hardware engineers and guide technical decisions regarding the physical layer architecture for security products.

