Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer

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.

Core to our mission is scaling quantum compute devices and systems in a technologically realistic and cost‑effective way. We are looking for a Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer to work at our Oxford headquarters as part of the team responsible for the hands‑on implementation, integration, and repeatable build of our lab‑based AMO subsystems. This role is explicitly focused on execution and reliability: joining an existing project, owning the implementation, solving tricky build issues, and improving the process each time we build.

In this position, you will work on building and integrating AMO / laser‑optics‑heavy systems, ensuring they can be assembled, debugged, commissioned, and improved repeatedly. You will help define what "good" looks like for a build, create repeatable integration, and perform practical troubleshooting with minimal supervision. You'll have the opportunity to reduce build pain, accelerate commissioning, improve reliability, and establish the processes/trackers that make complex lab systems repeatable.

Key responsibilities include:

• Inspection and verification of subsystems/components at various stages of build using appropriate tools and measurements (e.g., optical inspection/metrology, performance checks, diagnostic measurements).
• Preparation of parts and assemblies before and after integration, including careful cleaning/handling processes in a lab environment (where relevant).
• Organisation of packaging/integration activities with 3rd party suppliers, working closely with internal owners (e.g., optics, packaging, electronics) for new development and build turnarounds.
• Clear reporting of build metrics such as build status, commissioning progress, repeat issues, and reliability trends.
• Preparation of test assemblies and samples, including small‑scale mounting, cabling, fibre handling/alignment where applicable, and support of in‑house build‑enablement steps.
• Organisation of the BOM required to complete builds (e.g., optics parts, mounts/hardware, cables, PCBs/substrates as needed, fibres and related components), ensuring builds are not blocked by missing items.
• Pre‑deployment testing / commissioning and failure analysis: set up repeatable checks, diagnose faults, drive issues to resolution, and capture learnings so the next build is easier.
• Work cross‑functionally with system scientists, engineers, and technicians to translate design intent into robust implementation, procedures, and repeatable integration flows.

Requirements:

To be successful, you will need strong foundations in experimental AMO physics and hands‑on lab build experience; particularly with laser optics. We're looking for someone who can solve practical problems, work across teams and suppliers, and take a system from "in‑progress build" to "commissioned and repeatable". You'd be a great fit with AMO / experimental physics background, with strong optics/laser experience. Evidence you can define build/integration flows, troubleshoot independently, and apply clear technical thinking in a hands‑on environment. Comfort working with both internal and external stakeholders / suppliers, keeping complex builds moving.

One of the following experience profiles: Master's + 3+ years highly relevant hands‑on experience, or Relevant PhD, or Adjacent PhD + ~1 year relevant industry/lab training.

Useful extras (strong plus):

• Commissioning experience, electronics/instrumentation, programming/scripting.

Desirable skills (nice to have):

• Exposure to cryo‑adjacent hardware integration or working around cryogenic constraints.
• Experience with precision assembly techniques and careful lab build practices.
• Familiarity with PCB technologies / supply chain and practical build logistics.

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. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.