Senior Optical Engineer

IonQ; Bothell (WA); On-site; USD 114,750 - 150,237; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision plans

Matching 401(k)

Unlimited PTO and paid holidays

Job summary

IonQ is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to join our Quantum Networking Group in Bothell, WA. This role involves designing and validating advanced optical systems, focusing on high-fidelity Bell State Analyzers and quantum state tomography modules.

The ideal candidate should have 5+ years of experience in Optical Engineering, a Master’s degree, and hands-on expertise in interferometry. The position offers an opportunity to actively contribute to pioneering technology in the quantum domain, along with remote work options.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in Optical Engineering, Photonics, or Applied Physics.
• Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., Python) and instrument control.
• Deep understanding of photon statistics and single-photon detection technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate complex free-space and fiber-optic assemblies.
• Develop Bell State Analyzers using high-efficiency single-photon detectors.
• Collaborate with the systems engineering team for integration.

Skills

Optical Engineering

Photonics

Applied Physics

Data analysis (Python)

Hands-on experience with interferometry

Analytical skills

Education

Master’s degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, or Electrical Engineering

Tools

LabView

Simulink

Optical design software (Zemax, Code V)

Job description

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 20× 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.

Location

Bothell, WA office with the option to work a few days a week remotely.

Travel

Up to 25% domestic.

Job ID

1608

Role

Senior Optical Engineer – Quantum Networking Group

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our Quantum Networking Group. As an Optical Engineer, you will design, prototype, and validate advanced optical systems for quantum networking, specifically focusing on the development of high‑fidelity Bell State Analyzers and quantum state tomography modules.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate complex free‑space and fiber‑optic assemblies for quantum interference and entanglement distribution.
• Develop and characterize Bell State Analyzers (BSA) using high‑efficiency single‑photon detectors and precise temporal/spatial overlap control.
• Implement automated quantum tomography protocols to characterize the fidelity of networked quantum states.
• Collaborate with the systems engineering team to integrate optical networking hardware into the broader IonQ quantum computer architecture.
• Execute rigorous experimental validation of optical components, including polarization extinction ratios, insertion losses, and interferometric stability.
• Optimize optical alignment procedures to transition laboratory‑grade setups into robust, field‑deployable quantum networking equipment.

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional experience in Optical Engineering, Photonics, or Applied Physics with a focus on precision optical systems.
• Master’s degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., Python) and instrument control (e.g., LabView, Simulink).
• Hands‑on experience with ultra‑stable interferometry, fiber optics, and precision alignment of free‑space optical systems.
• Deep understanding of photon statistics and single‑photon detection technologies (SNSPDs, APDs).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to troubleshoot complex electro‑optical systems in a fast‑paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics or Optical Engineering with a thesis focused on Quantum Optics or Quantum Information Science.
• Proficiency in optical design software (e.g., Zemax, Code V, or Lumerical).
• Experience with Hong‑Ou‑Mandel interference and entanglement swapping protocols.
• Familiarity with FPGA‑based time‑tagging and coincidence counting electronics.
• Knowledge of laser frequency stabilization techniques and nonlinear optics (e.g., SPDC, frequency conversion).
• Experience with PICs.

Compensation

The approximate base salary range for this position is $114,750 – $150,237. Total compensation includes base, bonus, equity, and benefit options as detailed on our career site.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans; matching 401(k); unlimited PTO and paid holidays; parental/adoption leave; legal insurance; home‑technology stipend.

EEO Statement

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. IonQ is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Export Control Disclosure

The role may involve access to technology subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Candidates must be willing to verify U.S. person status and may need a license or exception to work with export‑controlled technology.

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