Staff Scientist - Quantum

DescriptionAbout 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.About Vector Atomic:Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you're excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.We're hiring driven Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physicists to play a key role in building ultraprecise quantum devices for autonomous navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to contribute to all stages of development, from concept to deployment. Location: This role is based onsite at our office in Pleasanton, CA (Bay Area)RequirementsWhat You'll Do:Prototype and design optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystemsSensor integration, bring-up, and optimization; data analysisAnalyze and simulate of atomic sensor performance and environmental sensitivitiesDeploy and demonstrate prototype sensors into real-world environments What We're Looking For:PhD in atomic, optical, quantum physics, or 8-12 years of related academic or industry experienceTo comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal.Hands-on expertise with several of the following:Atomic clocks and inertial sensorsAtomic ovens, beams, and/or vapor cellsLaser cooling and trappingPrecision spectroscopyUltra-high vacuum (UHV) systemsNarrow linewidth lasers and laser frequency stabilizationOptics, fiber optics, electro/acousto-optics, detectorsAnalog, digital, and RF electronicsControl systems and instrumentationMechanical designBenefitsVector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Employer 401(k) contributions20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidaysPaid parental leaveFully stocked kitchenPay RangeThe approximate base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $180,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.Job SummaryID: D608FEDAF1Department: ScienceType: full time