Senior Microwave Characterization Engineer

About IonQ:

IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world's leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ's newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services, and AstraZeneca achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense.

In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance.

Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ has operations in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Washington, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across land, sea, air, and space. IonQ is making quantum platforms more accessible and impactful than ever before.

Location:

This role will be based on-site at our Boston, MA office.

Travel:
Up to 10%, domestic

Job

The Role:

We are looking for a Senior Microwave Characterization Engineer to join our Quantum Interconnect Division. As a Senior Microwave Characterization Engineer, 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 be responsible for developing and executing rigorous microwave characterization of our quantum interconnects, as well as leveraging data to improve the performance of our devices. The ideal candidate is someone who is a collaborative and innovative problem-solver.

Responsibilities:

* Design and execute comprehensive microwave characterization experiments for next-generation quantum interconnects - at room- and cryogenic temperatures.

* Develop and implement automated testing procedures using software tools to accelerate characterization cycles.

* Validate measurement data by performing correlating electromagnetic simulations

* Analyze complex RF/microwave data to identify critical performance metrics and troubleshoot system deficiencies in close collaboration with hardware and design teams.

* Maintain, calibrate, and upgrade advanced microwave test equipment (e.g., VNAs, spectrum analyzers, power meters) in a laboratory setting.

* Document all characterization findings, procedures, and reports with precision for internal knowledge transfer and system optimization.

Requirements:

* 5+ years of professional experience in RF/Microwave characterization, testing, and metrology within the quantum, semiconductor, or advanced technology sectors, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

* Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

* Proven technical expertise in operating Vector Network Analyzers (VNA), spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators.

* Demonstrated proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for instrument control and data processing.

* Experience with simulation software (COMSOL, HFSS…)

* Strong collaborative and communication skills essential for working within a multi-disciplinary engineering and scientific environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Physics.

* Direct experience with cryogenic RF/Microwave measurement techniques and system integration.

* Familiarity with quantum computing principles or trapped-ion systems.

* Experience in designing, simulating, and characterizing microwave components and transmission lines (e.g., coplanar wave guides, microstrip).

* Prior experience in a fast-paced, high-tech R&D or startup environment.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $126,887 - $166,127. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.

Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location, and calibration against relevant market data and internal team equity. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend.

Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment.

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…