At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of cutting-edge quantum computers from concept to customer deployment.
- Company: Join IonQ, a leader in quantum technology with a global impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving innovation in quantum technology.
- Why this job: Shape the future of quantum computing and work with top industry experts.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading complex tech programmes and strong technical knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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.
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.
Quantum Computing Programme Lead employer: Blue Laser Fusion, Inc.
At IonQ, we are at the forefront of quantum computing innovation, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration among world-class scientists and engineers. As a Quantum Computing Programme Lead, you will have unparalleled opportunities for professional growth while contributing to groundbreaking projects that have real-world impact. Our competitive benefits package, including stock options, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health coverage, ensures that you are well-supported as you help shape the future of technology in a vibrant and inclusive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quantum Computing Programme Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the quantum computing space. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for quantum tech! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for the field. Share your thoughts on recent advancements or projects you've worked on that relate to quantum computing.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s work. Research IonQ’s latest projects and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals. Tailor your responses to show you understand their mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the IonQ team. So, hit that apply button and let’s get you in the game!
We think you need these skills to ace Quantum Computing Programme Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Quantum Computing Programme Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience in leading complex programmes and your technical breadth across various engineering domains. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to drive decisions and manage cross-functional teams without direct authority. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges and kept projects aligned with goals. We love a good story about overcoming obstacles!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your achievements and skills. We appreciate clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you're the right fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and let us know why you want to join our team!
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 this tech 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 the role involves driving decisions and aligning teams without direct authority, prepare examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional projects in the past. Highlight your ability to manage complex programmes and resolve blockers effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical concepts. You’ll need to communicate with both engineers and senior stakeholders, so being able to switch between technical jargon and layman's terms is key.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to programme management and decision-making. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
