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 hands-on technical VP Operations to lead IonQ’s quantum computing division. This is a leadership position that spans a broad remit across manufacturing, deployment, commissioning and operations. The emphasis of this role is owning end to end operations, driving speed of iteration and creating proportionate processes. 

As the scale of our operations increases, we are looking for someone who can drive world-class manufacturing for a low-volume, high-value product. Our technology is cutting-edge and our organisation is fast-moving. Success depends upon the ability to accelerate our build-test-learn cycle.

For this role we require someone who can strengthen operational discipline and  high levels of technical risk, all without introducing unnecessary drag. Our goal is to create tighter feedback loops between operations, engineering, science, and architecture, in order to drive towards our technical and commercial goals. 

Reporting directly to the President of Quantum Computing, this individual will serve as a key member of the Compute technical leadership team. Beyond operational ownership, the appointment requires a leader who can influence at the executive level, align cross-functional teams, and help shape an operating model needed to scale advanced quantum systems.

What you'll be responsible for:

Key responsibilities will include:

• Lead and own compute operations across manufacturing, commissioning and deployment and system operations. Responsibility for ensuring the function delivers against  technology milestones and research and development goals.
• Oversee the manufacture, assembly, integration, bring-up and testing of complex quantum systems. The focus in the near-term will be improving operational performance, accelerating iteration speed, and shortening the cycle from build to bring-up.
• Work closely with Engineering, Science and Architecture functions, ensuring fast feedback and close collaboration between the teams.
• Establish a risk-based operating model across compute operations, including robust test methodologies, readiness criteria and deployment execution, improving first-pass yield without introducing unnecessary process burden.
• Lead and scale a high performing team of technical experts, including setting the clear direction and priorities. 
• Contributing to the wider technical and strategic direction of the global Compute division.

Requirements

We do not require prior quantum experience for this role, we are looking for a track record of building, scaling, and operating complex products in deeply technical environments. Your experience will have been gained in a high growth, deep tech environment, such as advanced hardware, scientific instrumentation, semiconductors, electromechanical systems, or similarly challenging technologies.

We are looking for a proven leader, with the ability to align senior technical leaders around a common direction and drive pace, accountability and sound decision-making in ambiguous and fast-moving environments.

You'd be a great fit with:

• A track record of leading technical and operational teams with experience of systems integration, test, quality, deployment and operational execution across the full product lifecycle. 
• Demonstrable ability to introduce the minimum effective process needed to improve reliability and repeatability without slowing iteration,
• Calm, structured, and highly effective in the face of complexity and uncertainty, with the ability to operate at both strategic and tactical levels and dive into detail when needed.
• Strong people leader with the gravitas, judgement and resilience to deliver results in a high-performance environment.

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.