At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of cutting-edge trapped-ion quantum computers from concept to deployment.
- Company: Join IonQ, a leader in quantum computing innovation and technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving advancements in quantum computing.
- Why this job: Shape the future of quantum technology and tackle complex global challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading complex hardware or deep-tech programmes; strong technical breadth required.
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.
What to expect: 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.
What you’ll be responsible for: 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.
- 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.
Requirements: 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 elevate, 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.
Benefits: 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.
Quantum Computing Programme Lead employer: Oxford Ionics
At IonQ, we are at the forefront of quantum technology, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Quantum Computing Programme Lead, you will be part of a world-class team dedicated to transforming the future of computing, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Our competitive benefits package, including flexible working arrangements and comprehensive health coverage, ensures that you can thrive both personally and professionally in our vibrant Oxford location.
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! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the field. Share your thoughts on recent advancements or projects you've worked on that relate to quantum technology.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research IonQ and their latest projects, especially around trapped-ion technology. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission of transforming quantum computing.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you're serious about joining our team and gives us a chance to see your skills in action. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of something groundbreaking!
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 experience in leading complex programmes and your technical breadth across relevant areas. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at IonQ!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical expertise! Whether it’s electronics, optics, or software, let us know how your background makes you a great fit for this role. We’re looking for someone who can engage credibly across multiple domains.
Communicate Clearly:Your written application should reflect your excellent communication skills. Be clear and concise, especially when discussing your past experiences and achievements. Remember, we want to see how you can effectively communicate with both technical teams and senior stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at IonQ!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Ionics
✨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 ask how you would handle specific challenges related to programme delivery or stakeholder management. Think through potential scenarios in advance and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making strategies.
