Quantum Control Hardware Engineer

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 to unlock a new era of computing.

As a Staff Quantum Control Hardware Engineer, you will design the critical physical layer interface for next‑generation quantum networking nodes and high‑precision sensing devices.

• Design and develop low‑noise, high‑precision mixed‑signal circuit boards (DACs/ADCs) to drive optical modulators and laser sources for quantum networking protocols.
• Engineer ultra‑low‑noise readout interfaces for single‑photon detectors used in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and sensing applications.
• Ensure hardware designs maintain the signal integrity and coherence required to preserve quantum states during transmission and transduction.
• Collaborate closely with FPGA Engineers to receive timing specifications and deliver signal conditioning specs for synchronization across network nodes.
• Lead the full 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 minimize phase noise and jitter in networking hardware.
• Mentor junior hardware engineers and drive technical decision‑making regarding the physical layer architecture for security products.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience (or equivalent) in mixed‑signal hardware design and PCB layout.
• Deep expertise in designing low‑noise analog circuits and high‑precision instrumentation.
• Proven experience with high‑speed ADCs/DACs and signal conditioning chains.
• Proficiency with EDA tools for schematic capture and PCB layout (e.g., Altium, Cadence).
• Strong understanding of signal integrity, power integrity, and grounding in sensitive measurement systems.

• Experience designing hardware for low‑latency networks, optical communications, or quantum communications.
• Knowledge of precision sensing applications (e.g., magnetometry, atomic clocks).
• Familiarity with FPGA interfacing for high‑speed protocol timing.
• Background in controlling fiber‑optic components.

Onsite at our offices in Bothell, WA or Vista, CA. Travel up to 10%.

Base salary range $128,119 – $167,740. Total compensation includes base, bonus, and equity.

We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.