Device Operations Director in Oxford

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.

In this role, you will lead our Device Operations Team, which produces and tests the Quantum Processing Units (QPUs) which sit at the heart of our Quantum Computers. We are looking for someone with a strong technical background, capable of managing highly technical teams but also maintaining strong relationships with external suppliers. The team currently consists of five people and is set to double in size over the next nine months. You will set the technical direction, shape culture and standards, and work closely with colleagues and suppliers to make sure our devices are delivered on time and at the highest quality.

The Device Operations team is responsible for a range of areas concerning the manufacturing and test of our devices:

• Rapid production of devices in prototype quantities using our in-house fabrication facilities.
• Maintaining relationships with industrial fab partners involved in the production of our devices, owning the delivery of these devices.
• Developing packaging flows and processes needed for our unique devices, both in-house and with industrial partners.
• Packaging of the quantum processor devices in prototype quantities.
• Low-volume manufacturing test of non-quantum parameters of the devices.

You will provide technical leadership and ensure our device manufacturing processes are set up for success. You’ll balance rapid prototyping with long-term reliability, develop packaging capabilities, and align internal fabrication and test roadmaps. You’ll also take ownership of delivering prototypes and QPU devices, working closely with both in-house and external fabrication partners.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and grow the Device Manufacturing Team, setting direction and standards while mentoring junior staff.
• Define and develop packaging and manufacturing test processes, combining in-house and external capabilities.
• Own delivery of QPU prototypes and devices from our internal uFab and industrial partners.
• Work with colleagues across engineering and operations to plan future capability, select external partners where needed, and ensure the team has the resources to deliver at pace.

You’ll need a strong technical background in device packaging and fabrication, with proven experience taking devices from prototype through to early product stage. You should bring both hands-on expertise and the ability to lead teams, with a solid understanding of how processes and stack-ups impact yields, timescales and delivery.

Requirements include:

• Significant packaging experience in microelectronics, photonics, or a related sector.
• Track record of delivering prototypes and early-stage devices into production.
• Experience leading technical teams and setting direction in complex projects.
• Knowledge of supply-chain management across fabrication and packaging stages.

We’re looking for someone who thrives in fast-moving, evolving environments. Clear communication, collaboration and a growth mindset are essential, alongside the resilience and adaptability that come with working in a scaling company.

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.