Staff Scientist – Quantum Applications

IonQ

. Develop hybrid quantum applications for defense-related missions .

Posted 10/31/2026full-timeRemote • New Mexico • United StatesLead💰 $160,000 - $200,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing hybrid quantum applications and integrating quantum algorithms into workflows, with a strong foundation in Python and Qiskit. Proven ability to lead R&D engagements in defense-related contexts and produce high-impact peer-reviewed publications.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Doctorate Degree In Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics4+ Years Developing Quantum ApplicationsExpertise In Quantum Algorithm Tuning And BenchmarkingMastery Of Python And QiskitExperience Leading Federal And DefenseTech R&D Engagements

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Quantum Application DevelopmentQuantum Algorithm TuningBenchmarking Quantum AlgorithmsResource EstimationCrossover Point CalculationPython ProgrammingQiskitC++ ProgrammingHybrid Quantum AlgorithmsAgentic AI Development

Soft Skills

Problem SolvingTechnical LeadershipCommunication

Tools & Technologies

IonQ Trapped-Ion Quantum ComputersOpen-Source Software ToolsCommercial Off-The-Shelf Software

Industry Keywords

Defense-Related MissionsFederal R&DDefenseTechQuantum Solutions IndustryPeer-Reviewed Publications

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

PythonC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop hybrid quantum applications for defense-related missions
Partner directly with clients to identify, define, and solve problems using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers
Lead integration of quantum algorithms into realistic workflows
Translate problem statements into quantum code and reintegrate solutions into internal, open-source, and commercial off-the-shelf software tools
Evolve algorithmic approaches with IonQ’s hardware roadmap, including transition from NISQ to FTQC solutions
Benchmark quantum algorithm performance against state-of-the-art methods and communicate crossover points to customers
Develop foundational intellectual property and high-impact peer-reviewed publications
Represent IonQ externally with customers and at conferences
Serve as a technical leader and go-to expert for stakeholders as part of the Customer Solutions team

Requirements

What you’ll need

Doctorate degree in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics or similar STEM field
4+ years of professional work experience developing quantum applications applicable to defense-related use cases
Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications
Experience leading Federal, DefenseTech and Industrial R&D engagements
Experience tuning quantum algorithms and benchmarking across different quantum modalities and classical state-of-the-art methods
Expertise in resource estimation and calculating crossover points
Mastery of Python and Qiskit or similar quantum SDK
Working knowledge of C++ or another low-level language
Must reside in New Mexico
US persons only
Classical and quantum coding evaluations are part of the interview process
Preferred: experience in the quantum solutions industry
Preferred: experience developing software using agentic AI and AI assistants
Preferred: experience developing well-tuned hybrid quantum algorithms leveraging CPU and QPU strengths

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
Matching 401(k)
Unlimited PTO
Paid holidays
Parental/adoption leave
Legal insurance
Home technology stipend
Bonus and equity included in the total compensation package