Senior Characterization Engineer

Posted:
9/9/2024, 2:30:29 PM

Location(s):
Maryland, United States ⋅ College Park, Maryland, United States

Experience Level(s):
Senior

Field(s):
Mechanical Engineering

Workplace Type:
On-site

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. 

The salary range for this position is $123,191 - $161,289.

We are looking for a Senior Characterization Engineer to drive the characterization of surface ion traps and packages. You will be the technical lead to develop and validate novel ion-trap characterization techniques to both drive development and production throughput. Partnering with a cross-functional team, the Senior Characterization Engineer will work to develop tools and systems in support of ion trap design and analysis equipment sourcing, equipment install, driver development, scripting, experiment design, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and data analysis. This includes leading the verification and validation of requirements for electrical, thermal, mechanical, and optical devices. This critical team member will work to drive future characterization techniques through a disciplined engineering approach as we progress on our mission to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems. 

 

Responsibilities: 

  • Lead the design, build, and operation of electronic, mechanical, thermal, and optical testing infrastructure supporting validation of micro-fabricated devices and package assemblies
  • Purchase, install, and write drivers for characterization equipment
  • Perform detailed measurements, analyze and organize data, and present and discuss results with teammates for feedback to design and fabrication
  • Develop procedures and protocols to validate requirements of microfabricated devices
  • Train users and monitor equipment performance over time
  • Aide in the development of data tracking database and automated reporting for device characterization
  • Author verification and validation reports and presentations for project milestone reviews
  • Own and maintain cleanroom metrology and testing and associated tools
  • Work within a team of micro-fabrication, packaging and manufacturing engineers to improve device and device-assembly characterization, metrology, and packaging

 

You’d be a good fit with: 

  • Bachelors or higher in Engineering or Physics
  • 5+ years of experience with hands-on electrical, thermal, mechanical, and/or optical characterization of micro or nano-fabricated devices and package assemblies
  • 5+ years of experience working with design and/or systems engineering teams on product validation efforts
  • Experience building custom testbeds and developing custom device test procedures to support requirements validation and verification
  • Experience working in cleanrooms and microfabrication
  • Strong data analysis, visualization, and organizational skills
  • Programming skills (e.g., Python) for hardware control/automation and data analysis
  • Experience using fabrication device and materials analysis tools and techniques, such as SEM, TEM, XPS, SIMS, EDS, profilometry, and probe station
  • Ability to be on-site every day

 

You’d be a great fit with: 

  • Ph.D. or higher in Engineering or Physics
  • 3+ years of experience leading technical projects focused on micro or nano-fabricated device validation and development
  • 3+ years of experience in industry leading design and/or validation efforts supporting customer deliveries
  • Experience working with ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) assemblies
  • Experience with cryogenics
  • Experience using 3D CAD tools (e.g., Solidworks)
  • Experience with failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)
  • General knowledge of complex optical, electrical or mechanical products and systems 
  • Experience with optics, photonics, opto-electronic modules, vacuum assemblies and cryogenic systems
  • Best-in-class cross-functional communication, collaboration & presentation skills

 

Location:

This position is located in our bright, airy headquarters in College Park, MD.

 

The base pay component of the offer will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base pay, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component, as well as a range of benefit options found on our site at ionq.co/jobs.  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO plus paid holidays,  parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!


IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland which is only a 15-minute metro ride from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in the Seattle, Washington area. Depending on the position, you may be required to be located near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will be expanding 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.

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