Director, Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms

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.

We are looking for a Director of Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms to lead our business and technology development in utilizing IonQ’s quantum computers to create highly differentiated quantum solutions that will bring value to society. As a Director of Fault-Tolerant Quantum Algorithms, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on a multi-generational journey to solve the world’s most complex problems using the world’s best quantum computers built at IonQ.

As a deep technical expert on fault-tolerant algorithms, you will help discover the next generation of quantum applications that are poised to deliver results that exceed state-of-the-art classical methods. You will develop core IP, computational resource models, long-term roadmaps, and end-to-end workflows that have the potential to disrupt the field of computing and drive long-term competitiveness. You will also work closely with product, engineering, marketing, sales, operations, and external customers/partners to brainstorm new ideas, propose complex, multi-year initiatives, and represent IonQ at high-visibility technical conferences (often all in a single day)!

Responsibilities:

• Develop IonQ’s long-term roadmap by leading a new fault-tolerant quantum applications team. Design and implement fault-tolerant, utility-scale algorithms that can deliver faster/better/cheaper results than state-of-the-art classical versions alone
• Devise and execute strategies for delivering fault-tolerant quantum solutions that can make a large scientific and commercial impact across a wide range of industry verticals
• Build and grow a highly talented technical team dedicated to building fault-tolerant, utility-scale quantum solutions, through strategic hiring and cultivating from within
• Drive a culture of technical innovation, operational excellence, and customer success across the organization
• Identify opportunities for developing and deploying end-to-end solutions, at scale, by leveraging partnerships and developing reusable libraries, simulators, compilers, etc.
• Develop multi-year, long-term roadmaps and SWOT models of FTQC algorithms vs NISQ algorithms vs classical HPC algorithms. Build upon a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge, quantifiable data, business analytics, and industry networks to make calculated bets on a compelling quantum applications roadmap
• Represent the most demanding of product superusers and offer feedback to engineering teams across IonQ to co-develop a multi-generational IonQ hardware map roadmap that anticipates emerging customer needs
• Work closely with Product Management, Sales, and Marketing teams to expand the customer base by developing a strong portfolio of fault-tolerant quantum applications. Secure foundational IP and publish results in high-impact-factor peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Collaborate with other managers and consistently and effectively communicate across the organization, up the leadership chain, and with external customers and partners. Model IonQ values, every day.

You’d be a good fit with:

• World-class expertise in FTQC algorithms with the ability to envision, realize, and optimize utility-scale quantum algorithms possessing millions of qubits, billions of gates, and line-of-sight to end-customer value
• Strategic, long-term view toward developing a FTQC algorithm ecosystem including the development of tools (libraries, simulators, compiler), metrics (costing, resource estimation, ROI), and community (economic development, standards).
• Relentless dedication to optimizing performance (accuracy, time-to-solution) through elegant theoretical equations, as well as engineering optimization
• 15+ years of experience in technical R&D in algorithms and/or computational science
• 5+ years of experience leading large, complex, multi-party collaborations dedicated to delivering deep-tech solutions, when a path to a solution does not yet exist
• Proven track record of technical leadership in fault-tolerant quantum computing, demonstrated through invited talks, repos, licenses, publications, and/or patents
• Experience in launching, operating, and growing new businesses that are focused on solving the toughest challenges for industry and society
  
  

You’d be a great fit with:

• Ph.D. in computer science, engineering, physics, or related fields
• Prior experience commercializing radically new technologies
• Experience proposing, winning, and executing on consultative (paid) contracts; government contracting or defense contracting experience a plus

Location: This position can work onsite or hybrid from one of our offices (College Park, MD, Bothell, WA) or fully remote in the US.
Travel: 10% domestic and international
Job ID: 1057

The approximate base salary range for this position is $215,462 - $282,095. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

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

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

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and 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!