{"id":3735747,"url":"https://alion.io/job/zuriq-quantum-computing-operations-scientist","title":"Quantum Computing Operations Scientist","company":{"id":2200860,"name":"ZuriQ","domain":"zuriq.com","url":"https://alion.io/company/zuriq","size_band":"51-200","is_staffing_agency":false,"employer_type":"direct","is_intermediary":false,"listed_via":null,"ats_vendor":null,"truth_index":null},"role":"Quantum","role_family":"Quantum","seniority":null,"employment_type":"full_time","work_mode":"on_site","remote_scope":null,"remote_scope_basis":null,"remote_working_hours":null,"hiring_geo_confidence":"structured","locations":["Zurich, Switzerland"],"countries":["CH"],"hiring_countries":[],"hiring_countries_total":0,"salary":null,"salary_estimate":null,"experience_years_min":null,"visa_sponsorship":false,"relocation_package":false,"has_equity":true,"technologies":[{"name":"Python","optional":false}],"status":"live","first_seen_at":"2026-11-04T09:25:55Z","employer_posted_date":null,"last_verified_at":"2026-11-04T09:25:55Z","board_verified":false,"closed_at":null,"days_open":3,"trust":{"level":"not_scored","repost_count":null,"flags":[],"days_open":3},"description":"About ZuriQ\nZuriQ's goal is to develop the next generation of quantum computers. Using quantum physics, these machines will make it possible to solve computational problems beyond the reach of today’s computers. Our technology is based on a new method for trapping atomic ions in Penning micro-traps, developed at ETH Zürich. Each ion is held only by static electric and magnetic fields, so our systems can natively operate two-dimensional arrays of ions as qubits.This gives us a direct path to scaling the quantum computer to a size where it finds useful applications.\nFounded two years ago as an ETH Zürich spin-off, ZuriQ is on its way to becoming a world-leading provider of quantum computers. Our small team of highly motivated people has years of experience building quantum computers and is driven by a singular vision: to build the world’s first fully scaled quantum computer.\nImpact\nYou will play a key role in advancing ZuriQ's novel Penning-trap quantum computing platform from experimental demonstrations towards a scalable quantum computing platform. Working closely with our engineering and software teams, you will operate and develop our prototype systems, demonstrating new capabilities and improving their performance and reliability.\nFrom trapping and controlling individual ions to demonstrating high-fidelity quantum operations, your work will directly shape the development of our technology. You will have the opportunity to take ownership of prototype systems, tackle challenging problems at the intersection of quantum physics and engineering, and help translate cutting-edge research into a functioning quantum computer.\nThe role\nYou will work hands-on with our trapped-ion quantum computing systems, taking responsibility for their day-to-day operation while contributing to the development of new system capabilities. You will design and execute experimental sequences, characterize system performance, troubleshoot complex experimental challenges, and develop techniques to improve qubit control and quantum operations.\nWorking alongside a multidisciplinary team of experimental physicists, engineers, software developers and quantum algorithms specialists, you will help integrate individual components into a fully functioning quantum computer. This includes developing standardized procedures for system operation, automating execution of calibrations and algorithmic sequences, analyzing data, and translating experimental results into actionable improvements to the system.\nAs part of a growing startup, you will have significant influence over both the technical direction of the experiments and the evolution of our quantum computing platform.\nWhat you'll do\nOperate, maintain, and optimize Penning-trap quantum computing experiments, ensuring reliable day-to-day system performance.\nCharacterize qubit properties, quantum operations, ion array rearrangement, and other relevant system parameters to understand and improve performance.\nDiagnose experimental issues, identify performance limitations, and implement solutions across the optical, electronic, and control systems.\nDevelop automated measurement and calibration routines, using Python and other tools to streamline experimental workflows and data analysis.\nWork closely with hardware and software engineers to integrate new subsystems and develop new quantum computing capabilities.\nDesign and execute experiments to validate new concepts, demonstrate technical milestones, and guide the development of the platform.\nEstablish experimental procedures, documentation, and performance metrics to improve reproducibility, maintainability and reliability.\nContribute to the commissioning of next-generation prototypes as the company expands its quantum computing capabilities.Use your hands-on experience operating our prototype systems to shape the design of the next generation.\nYour profile\nA PhD in experimental physics, quantum optics, atomic physics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.\nHands-on experience with experimental quantum systems, preferably trapped-ion quantum computing or another platform involving control of quantum systems.\nA concrete understanding of quantum mechanics, coherent control, and experimental techniques for manipulating and measuring quantum states.\nExperience in designing, executing, and analysing physics experiments, with the ability to troubleshoot complex problems systematically.\nProficiency in Python for experimental control, automation, data analysis, and visualization.\nA practical, hands-on approach to experimental physics, with a willingness to work across different parts of a complex prototype setup.\nThe ability to work independently, take ownership of technical challenges, and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.\nA proactive, solution-oriented mindset and enthusiasm for building a new quantum computing architecture from the ground up.\nStrong technical writing and communication skills, with experience documenting experimental work, writing scientific publications, and presenting results at conferences.\nStrong communication skills in English.\nNice to have\nExperience with ion trap systems, Penning traps, or precision control of atomic or molecular systems.\nExperience with quantum gates, quantum process characterization, and benchmarking of quantum operations.\nFamiliarity with laser systems, optical setups, frequency stabilization, and phase-noise characterization.\nExperience with ultra-high-vacuum systems, cryogenic environments, superconducting magnets.\nExperience with FPGA-based control systems, RF and microwave electronics, timing systems, or real-time experimental control.\nFamiliarity with experimental automation frameworks, hardware integration, and laboratory control software.\nExperience improving experimental stability, automating calibration procedures, and developing reliable measurement workflows.\nWhat we offer\nThe opportunity to help build a new quantum computing architecture from the ground up.\nA hands-on experimental role with direct influence on the performance and development of our quantum computer.\nThe opportunity to work at the forefront of trapped-ion quantum computing, combining fundamental physics with practical engineering.\nLong-term career prospects and diverse opportunities for professional development in a rapidly evolving field.\nCompetitive compensation and equity participation through a stock option plan.\nA dynamic, motivated, international team with a flat hierarchy, built around four core principles: excellence, reliability, trust, and open feedback.\nFlexible working arrangements and hours.\n30 days of annual leave.\nWe are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.\nWe look forward to receiving your application, including your CV and a short cover letter.","description_format":"text","description_chars":6847,"description_truncated":false,"requirements":{"experience_years_min":null,"management_years_min":null,"team_size_min":null,"manages_managers":false,"education":{"level":"phd","optional":false},"security_clearance":false,"languages":[{"language":"English","level":"All levels","optional":false}]},"benefits":["Annual 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