Senior Photonics Test Engineer

Overview 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 multiple locations. IonQ\'s quantum computing services are available through major cloud providers, and the company aims to make quantum platforms more accessible and impactful. The Role We are looking for a Senior Photonics Test Engineer to join our Quantum Interconnect Division. As a Senior Photonics Test 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 the characterization and test development of on-chip photonic devices. The ideal candidate is someone who is a detail-oriented problem solver with strong teamwork skills. Responsibilities Design, upgrade, and expand the testing infrastructure for characterizing classical integrated photonics devices and components (passive and active) at chip and wafer level scale, utilizing both room-temperature and cryogenic setups. Develop and perform robust testing procedures for component-level characterization. Automate the test pipeline, including instrument setup, data acquisition, and analysis, while maintaining high-quality, scalable, and well-tested scripts. Conduct characterization using room-temperature and cryogenic setups and provide data-driven feedback to design engineers to improve component performance. Collaborate with design, packaging, and system teams to optimize testing features and develop a library of testing structures for platform improvement. Requirements 3+ years of professional experience in the hands-on characterization of PIC devices or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master or Ph.D. in engineering or related field/discipline or equivalent practical experience. Programming experience in a general-purpose programming language (like Python, Matlab, etc.) for test automation. Experience with test instrumentation and methods for characterizing classical integrated photonics devices. Strong data processing, visualization, and organizational skills. Hands-on experience with room-temperature optical test setups Preferred Qualifications 5+ years of design and characterization experience of classical integrated photonics devices. 3+ years of industry experience. Familiarity with free-space optics and imaging systems. Hands-on experience with cryogenic optical test setups. Experience working with laser sources and fiber components. Strong programming skills for data analysis and experimental automation software, and experience with version control systems such as git. Familiarity with fabrication processes and design constraints for PICs. Compensation and Benefits 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. Equal Opportunity and Compliance At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We are committed to equity and justice and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, 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. The position you are applying for may require access to technology subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on confirming status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Additional questions regarding immigration status may be asked for compliance purposes. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. The answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply! #J-18808-Ljbffr IonQ