At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of cutting-edge quantum computers from concept to deployment.
- Company: Join IonQ, a leader in quantum technology transforming the future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team of innovators and scientists.
- Why this job: Shape the future of quantum computing and tackle complex global challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading complex tech programmes and strong technical knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
Quantum is now, and it's built here. Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, is pioneering the next generation of quantum computing. Using our world-leading trapped-ion technology, we’re building the most powerful, accurate and reliable quantum systems to tackle problems that today’s supercomputers cannot solve. Joining Oxford Ionics means becoming part of a global IonQ team that is transforming the future of quantum technology - faster, at scale, and with real world impact.
IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world’s leading quantum company delivering solutions to solve the world’s most complex problems. IonQ’s newest generation quantum computers, IonQ Tempo and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners such as Amazon Web Services, AstraZeneca, and NVIDIA achieve 20x performance results. The company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance in 2025. The company is accelerating its technology roadmap and intends to deliver the world’s most powerful quantum computers with 2 million qubits by 2030 to accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. IonQ’s advancements in quantum networking position the company as a leader in building the quantum internet.
We are looking for a Quantum Computing Programme Lead to join our Programme Management team at IonQ. In this role, you will be responsible for taking end-to-end ownership of one generation of our trapped-ion quantum computers, from architectural concept definition through to first production systems operating successfully on customer sites. You’ll play an important part in shaping the programme structure, technical decision-making, delivery cadence and cross-functional alignment needed to build the world’s most advanced quantum systems.
In this position, you will work across engineering, architecture, science, applications, product, manufacturing and operations teams to ensure a highly complex technical programme comes together as a whole. You will not directly manage teams, but you will be the single person accountable for programme delivery, driving decisions, removing blockers and ensuring the programme stays aligned to product, customer and engineering goals. You’ll have the opportunity to lead one of the most important programmes in IonQ’s Compute Division, helping turn advanced quantum computing architecture into production systems that can be built, deployed and operated successfully.
Key responsibilities include:
- Own the full programme scope for one generation of trapped-ion quantum computers, from architectural concept through to customer-site deployment.
- Drive programme schedule, risk management, technical trade-offs and executive-level communication across multiple teams and geographies.
- Lead cross-functional decision-making across QPU design, manufacturing, electronics, lasers and detection, cryo and vacuum systems, software and product.
- Identify technical and organisational blockers early, create focused routes to resolution and keep critical workstreams moving at pace.
- Partner with Product, Go-to-Market, Manufacturing and Operations to ensure product definition, build readiness and customer delivery plans remain aligned.
To be successful, you will need significant experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary hardware or deep-tech programmes. We’re looking for someone with the technical breadth to engage credibly across multiple engineering and scientific domains, the judgement to know when to challenge or escalate, and the leadership presence to align senior stakeholders without relying on direct authority.
You’d be a great fit with:
- Extensive experience in senior technical programme, product or systems leadership within complex hardware, deep-tech or scientific environments.
- Strong technical breadth across areas such as electronics, optics/photonics, cryogenic or vacuum systems, embedded software, firmware, FPGA/gateware, chip design or advanced manufacturing.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional programme delivery across R&D, engineering, manufacturing and customer deployment phases.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the ability to brief senior leaders while working effectively with engineers and scientists at the technical level.
- Prior experience in quantum computing, trapped-ion systems or physics-heavy technology programmes would be highly advantageous, but is not essential where technical breadth and learning agility are exceptional.
Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of quantum. We offer more than just a role, you’ll join a world-class community of scientists, engineers and innovators working to unlock the full potential of quantum computing. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders, a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, an annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Lead Quantum Computing Programme — Production-Ready Systems employer: Blue Laser Fusion, Inc.
At IonQ, we are at the forefront of quantum computing innovation, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and creativity. Our employees benefit from competitive salaries, stock options, and comprehensive health insurance, alongside opportunities for professional growth within a diverse and inclusive team. Join us in Oxford to be part of a pioneering company that is not only shaping the future of technology but also making a real-world impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Quantum Computing Programme — Production-Ready Systems
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Connect with folks in the quantum computing space on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for quantum! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your excitement about the field and how you see yourself contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s projects. Knowing their latest advancements, like IonQ's record-setting qubit fidelity, will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Quantum Computing Programme — Production-Ready Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Quantum:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for quantum computing shine through! We want to see how excited you are about the field and how you can contribute to our mission at IonQ.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in complex hardware or deep-tech programmes. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage technical challenges.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and skills, as this will help us quickly understand your fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with IonQ.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Laser Fusion, Inc.
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your quantum computing knowledge, especially around trapped-ion technology. Be ready to discuss how it works and its applications in real-world scenarios. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading complex programmes, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive decisions and resolve blockers, as this will demonstrate your capability to take ownership of the programme.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical concepts. You’ll need to communicate effectively with both engineers and senior stakeholders, so being able to simplify complex ideas will be a huge plus.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges in programme management. Think about potential risks or technical trade-offs you might face and how you would address them. This will help you showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
