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- Tasks: Design and integrate features for cutting-edge quantum computing chips.
- Company: Join Oxford Ionics/IonQ, a leader in quantum technology innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of quantum computing and work with industry pioneers.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in chip design, engineering degree or equivalent experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ 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.
We are looking for a QPU Design Engineer to join our Processor Design team at Oxford Ionics/IonQ. In this role, you will be responsible for integrating all the features required for the successful operation of our quantum computers into complex chips.
What To Expect
You will be directly contributing to the team’s mission of advancing the design of high‑performance quantum processing units, the novel technology that sits at the very heart of our quantum computers. You will work closely with scientists and fabrication engineers, understanding how the various parts of a chip influence and constrain each other, to bring new designs for ion‑trapping chips into production. You will play an important part in shaping the hardware that supports our work in building the world’s most advanced quantum systems.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
- Your primary responsibility will focus on turning operational requirements into chip layout, supporting the effective delivery of devices that enable new technologies.
- You will have the opportunity to expand the range of features supported by our chips, contributing directly to the success of building utility‑scale quantum computers.
Key Responsibilities Include
- Guiding the end‑to‑end chip design process, from requirements to layout and tape‑out.
- Coordinating with other teams to ensure feasibility and compatibility between the various layers of the chip.
- Collaborating with scientists to discuss their requirements and settle on specifications.
- Laying out complex multi‑layer chips, including metal track routing and interfaces with photonics and CMOS.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need prior hands‑on experience in chip layout, specifically translating design requirements into features, as well as taking on layout work. You will need to be able to take charge of projects independently, solve problems along the way and drive the design process while taking responsibility for delivery of the final tape‑out.
You’d Be a Great Fit With
- At least 3 years of industry experience leading complex chip design and in IC layout.
- A degree in engineering, electronics or science, or equivalent industry experience in a technical or scientific environment.
- Proven ability to consult and coordinate between multiple stakeholders.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills.
Additional experience that may be beneficial includes
- Experience in scripted generation of layout (GSDFactory in Python or similar).
- Using Cadence for IC layout.
- Experience in ion trap and/or photonics design or IC packaging.
Benefits
Be part of a team that’s shaping the future of quantum. 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.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We’re proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
QPU Design Engineer employer: Physics World
Contact Detail:
Physics World Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land QPU Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the quantum computing field, especially those at Oxford Ionics or IonQ. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about sliding into DMs on LinkedIn – you never know who might help you land that interview!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your chip design projects or any relevant work. This is your chance to demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities, so make it shine when you get the opportunity to chat with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of chip layout and design processes. Practice explaining complex concepts simply, as you’ll likely need to communicate with scientists and engineers from various backgrounds. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Oxford Ionics/IonQ. Let’s make quantum history together!
We think you need these skills to ace QPU Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the QPU Design Engineer role. Highlight your hands-on experience in chip layout and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Oxford Ionics!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about quantum technology and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Let us know what excites you about working with us at IonQ.
Showcase Collaboration Skills: Since you'll be working closely with scientists and engineers, it's important to showcase your collaboration and communication skills. Share examples of how you've successfully coordinated with multiple stakeholders in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Physics World
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quantum computing and chip design. Understand the basics of ion-trapping technology and how it integrates into chip layouts. This will not only show your passion for the field but also help you engage in meaningful discussions with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've led complex chip designs or tackled layout challenges. Be ready to explain your thought process, the problems you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since this role involves working closely with scientists and other teams, highlight your collaboration skills. Share examples of how you've successfully coordinated with multiple stakeholders in past projects. This will show that you can effectively communicate and work as part of a team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company’s current projects or future goals in quantum technology. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career aspirations. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.