Staff R&D Project Manager

ID Quantique (IDQ) as part of IONQ, is a global leader in quantum-safe communications and quantum detection systems. We provide solutions to protect governments, telecommunication infrastructures, and banking & financial institutions from the “harvest-now, decrypt-later” threat, delivering both terrestrial and space-based quantum-safe networks in live operation globally. Our Quantum Detection Systems push the limits of single-photon detection, powering breakthroughs in quantum communication, sensing, computing, and ultra-sensitive imaging in partnership with top researchers and tech innovators worldwide.

What to expect

We are looking for a proven Staff R&D Project Manager with leadership and expertise in SNSPD system development who will focus on our next multi-capability SNSPD platforms and solutions. You will own the new product programme execution for SNSPD systems development within our Quantum Detection System roadmap, will be responsible for the successful execution of new product development programs: translating complex technical work into clear plans, measurable milestones, and predictable delivery.

What you'll be doing

We are seeking a Programme Lead to drive the development of advanced SNSPD systems, taking full ownership of scope, schedule, resources, dependencies, and stakeholder alignment. At the centre of a highly cross-functional environment, you will work day-to-day with physicists, engineers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders, turning complex technical work into clear plans, milestones, and predictable delivery. You will apply robust project management methodologies (Agile and/or Waterfall) to build structured delivery plans, ensuring execution is tracked with pace, rigour, and exceptional attention to detail, while continuously improving hardware development execution.

In this role, you will establish and lead effective programme cadences, including status reviews, dashboards, risk tracking, and decision frameworks, ensuring senior leadership receives timely, decision-ready updates. Acting as the cross-functional liaison, you will manage scope, risks, dependencies, and reporting, bringing clarity and structure when priorities shift or technical challenges arise. You will drive collaboration across physics, electronics, mechanical, firmware, and partner teams, ensuring designs are feasible, manufacturable, and aligned with programme milestones and engineering plans. Additionally, you will provide day-to-day coordination, technical guidance, and priority setting for Electronics, FPGA, and Firmware engineers, supporting design trade-offs, interface decisions, and system integration activities.

• Lead end-to-end programme delivery for SNSPD system development
• Drive cross-functional execution and alignment across technical teams
• Establish reporting cadences and deliver clear updates to senior leadership
• Identify and mitigate risks while ensuring feasible, manufacturable designs
• Coordinate and guide Electronics, FPGA, and Firmware teams towards integration success

What you'll bring

We are seeking a highly capable Programme Lead with a strong technical foundation to deliver complex hardware programmes in a cutting-edge R&D environment. You will hold a degree in Physics, Cryogeny, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline, with an advanced degree preferred. With at least eight years of experience delivering sophisticated hardware systems - such as optoelectronics or detection technologies - you will bring a deep understanding of optical and photonic products, including their integration constraints. You will be comfortable working in technically demanding environments, driving structured execution across multidisciplinary teams and ensuring consistent progress.

You will bring a strong analytical mindset, with the ability to interrogate data, challenge assumptions, and develop accurate plans and forecasts. More than a coordinator, you will be a proactive driver of outcomes - removing blockers, improving programme execution, and raising standards across teams. Operating across sites and time zones, you will bring clarity and rhythm to fast-moving, ambiguous programmes. Your excellent communication skills will enable you to align both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring decisions are made effectively and programmes move forward with confidence.

• Degree in Physics, Cryogeny, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred)
• 8+ years delivering complex hardware programmes, ideally in optoelectronics or detection systems
• Strong understanding of optical/photonic products and system integration constraints
• Analytical and proactive approach to planning, forecasting, and problem-solving
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to align diverse stakeholders and drive decisions

You'll be a great fit with

We are seeking an experienced Programme Lead with over 12 years of delivering complex hardware programmes, bringing both technical depth and leadership capability. You will have hands-on experience in electronics design, FPGA development, or embedded firmware, alongside knowledge of optical or photonic components, nanofabrication, chip encapsulation, integrated circuits, or cryogenic hardware. Comfortable operating in highly technical environments, you will combine practical expertise with the ability to guide and support engineering teams, ensuring high-quality delivery and strong technical alignment across programmes.

• 12+ years’ experience delivering complex hardware programmes with strong technical expertise
• Proven ability to guide or lead small engineering teams in multidisciplinary environments

What We Offer

• A role at one of the fastest growing and most exciting Quantum companies in the world.
• A competitive compensation scheme, benefits package and equity plan. All designed to reward excellence.
• Flexible work models that let you balance your life, your family, and your career.
• Ongoing training and development to keep your skills sharp and your growth on track.
• A career development plan within the IonQ group’s companies
• A dynamic, close-knit environment where you collaborate with a global team of experts.
• A performance-driven culture built on trust, teamwork, and shared ambition.

ID Quantique/ IonQ is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by law.