Senior Staff Engineer - Linux Kernel and Embedded Devices Team

Location: Seattle, Washington, United States

Team: Software

Type: Full-Time

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 $202,347 - $264,924.

Our quantum computers perform calculations by shooting individual atoms floating in a vacuum with carefully modulated laser pulses—the better the pulse, the better the computation. We’re looking for a software engineer to help us make the best pulses on the planet. You’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to ensure we consistently deliver the best quantum gates in the world, helping drive the technical direction for our next-generation quantum computers.

The device classic system software team is responsible for the Linux kernel and embedded software platform level software. This includes writing new device drivers, supporting our embedded Linux distributions used for ARM cards and platform level software for the Intel based systems used in our IonQ computer. As a senior staff level engineer, you will be deeply involved in guiding the development and architecture of this layer of the system hardware and software.

Responsibilities:

• Write high-quality, well-tested, production-ready code in C, Rust and other languages
• Design and implement Linux drivers and kernel level software
• Working with the broader team, support code updates and configuration of the embedded devices
• Work with upstream open source communities to support our base level of software
• Effectively self-manage projects, priorities, deadlines, and deliverables
• Collaborate with an experienced interdisciplinary staff of software engineers, hardware engineers, and physicists
• Approach problems pragmatically
• Help us continuously improve how we do things

The ideal candidate will have experience developing production quality software through all stages of the software lifecycle. You’ll be able to balance technical expertise and savvy with strong business judgment to make great technology choices. You’ll strive for simplicity and demonstrate significant creativity and incisive judgment.

You’d be a good fit with:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or equivalent practical experience
• 10 years professional experience in software development in operating system kernel space
• Good analytical and mathematical skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A love of collaborating in an interdisciplinary environment
• Empathy: you'll work closely with our internal team of physicists who depend on our software every day and our control software engineers

You’d be a great fit with:

• Professional or academic experience of at least one systems programming language (e.g. C, C , Rust)
• Academic or professional experience with digital signal processing, either mathematical foundations or bench experience in image processing, RF, or optics
• Experience using oscilloscopes and/or spectrum analyzers
• Master’s degree or PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or related technical field
• Experience working with RF or Optics

Location:

This position is located in our newest facility in Bothell, WA.While we can be flexible for the right candidate, colocation supports our highly collaborative and interactive work with the hardware teams building the world’s best quantum computers.

Our HQ is located in College Park, Maryland and we are 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 in Washington DC, Seattle, Washington or the Toronto, Canada area. However, IonQ will be expanding into additional geographies both domestically and internationally so don’t let this stop you from applying.
At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for all, while at the same time 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 in which any individual 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, color, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, and military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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. The total compensation package may include other elements dependent on the position and level. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment. Beyond base pay, total compensation includes a range of health insurance options and other benefits which can be found on our site at ionq.co/jobs . Some of our benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, home internet stipend, a generous PTO plan, parental/adoption leave, 401K, dental and vision plans and paid holidays.
If you are interested in being a part of this team and mission, we encourage you to apply.