Staff Software Engineer (SDK), Developer Tools

IonQ • Bothell, WA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.
We don't just build the world's best quantum computers–we want them to be usable by everyone, everywhere. We are looking for a Staff Software Engineer to join the Developer Tools team. You'll lead development of our quantum software development kits (SDKs), quantum computing libraries and developer tooling, working closely with product, applications, systems, and science teams to build the best quantum developer experience for our customers and partners. The Developer Tools team builds the software layer that connects quantum developers to IonQ's quantum computers via SDKs (Qiskit, Cirq, and native IonQ SDKs), compilation, simulation and emulation tools, and the broader quantum software ecosystem. You'll help shape how researchers, developers, and enterprises interact with quantum computing through intuitive, powerful, and well-documented tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field, or equivalent training, fellowship, or work experience
• 8+ years of professional experience in software engineering, working in a team environment.
• 5+ years of experience in leading the design, development, and maintenance of robust, high-quality SDKs and scientific libraries.
• Proficiency in Python.
• Experience in mentoring and guiding engineers of all levels to ensure a high bar for code quality and performance.
• Experience in driving the team's long-term vision and architecture, shaping roadmaps, and providing technical leadership.
• Experience in collaborating with product and other engineering teams to ensure alignment and effective communication.
• Experience in identifying and solving complex technical challenges related to SDK development, performance, and integration.
• Demonstrated experience in prioritizing user-friendliness and seamless integration of SDKs and scientific libraries for developer adoption.
• Demonstrated ability to remain current with industry trends, upstream software modifications, and advancements within the SDK ecosystem.
• Experience in creating and maintaining clear and comprehensive documentation.

Nice To Haves

• 10+ years of professional software experience.
• 7+ years in leading the design, development, and maintenance of robust, high-quality SDKs and scientific software.
• Experience in maintaining open-source software with outside contributors.
• Experience with system-level programming languages like C++ or Rust.
• Proficiency in quantum computing SDKs (Qiskit, Pennylane, Cirq).
• Experience with quantum computing technologies such as error mitigation, quantum error correction, quantum compilers and circuit optimization.

Responsibilities

• Reporting to the Senior Manager of Developer Tools, this role involves close collaboration with Product and Application teams to ensure the development of high-quality, user-friendly, and comprehensively documented SDKs and quantum libraries that fulfill specified requirements.
• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of robust, high-quality SDK features and capabilities enabling quantum novices and experts alike to solve real-world problems with quantum computers.
• Mentor senior and junior engineers on the team.

Benefits

• US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level