SNSPD Engineer

(IDQ) as part of IONQ, is a global leader in quantum-safe communications and quantum detection systems. We provide solutions to protect governments, telecommunication infrastructures, and banking & financial institutions from the “harvest-now, decrypt-later” threat, delivering both terrestrial and space-based quantum-safe networks in live operation globally. Our Quantum Detection Systems push the limits of single-photon detection, powering breakthroughs in quantum communication, sensing, computing, and ultra-sensitive imaging in partnership with top researchers and tech innovators worldwide.

is looking for a SNSPD engineer to join the R&D team located in Geneva, Switzerland, reporting to the Senior Hardware Engineering Manager.

Position summary: This position is dedicated to designing, characterizing and optimizing SNSPD (Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detector) devices and systems. The successful candidate has a solid knowledge of device and technology, nanofabrication and all involved processes. The SNSPD engineer knows how to design and optimize a SNSPD device, understands the trade-offs and technology limits, and is capable to push boundaries.

The SNSPD engineer handles all aspects of device design, from materials to device shape and dimensions. They know how to design and predict performance theoretically, simulate and verify using numerical/finite-elements simulators. They master the nanofabrication process, its fine-tuning and optimization. Also, they are familiar with the measurement and validation process, to achieve good performance and yield.

They are also capable of simulating a behavioral electrical model of the device, understanding how physical parameters are transposed in their electrical model, and how the device interfaces with the electronic frontend, for bias and signal amplification and processing.

Knowledge of cryogenic systems and electronic/cryogenic frontend circuits is a plus.

The candidate interacts with a team of SNSPD scientists, test engineers and production engineers. They are a good team player and communicator, are innovative and structured, capable of developing new technology and stabilizing it for production.

Key Functions and Responsibilities:

• Simulate, verify and validate designs
• Select and fine-tune nanofabrication process parameters
• Identify design limitations and propose solutions for improving performance
• Fabricate SNSPD wafers & devices in clean room
• Measure and characterize devices in cryostats
• Analyze performance and identify limitations and abnormalities
• Propose device/process and nanofabrication improvements
• Synthesize results and recommendations in clear design reports and presentations
• Validate designs, industrialize processes and transition R&D designs to production
• Collaborate with an international and multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers

Required Expertise:

• 1+ year of experience in the field of SNSPD device design, fabrication and optimization
• Solid knowledge, understanding and experience of nanotechnology and nanofabrication
• Clean room qualification and experience
• Proven experience identifying, analyzing and resolving problems
• Capacity to write clear, structured and synthetic design, validation and measurement reports
• Presenting their work and findings clearly and concisely
• Strong team player
• Capacity to work autonomously on design, fabrication and measurement tasks
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Quick learner and can-do attitude in a fast-paced environment
• Fluency in English and French

• A role at one of the fastest growing and most exciting Quantum companies in the world.
• A competitive compensation scheme, benefits package and equity plan. All designed to reward excellence.
• Flexible work models that let you balance your life, your family, and your career.
• Ongoing training and development to keep your skills sharp and your growth on track.
• A career development plan within the IonQ group’s companies
• A dynamic, close-knit environment where you collaborate with a global team of experts.
• A performance-driven culture built on trust, teamwork, and shared ambition.

/ IonQ is an equal opportunity employer and considers…