Principal Engineer - Classical Cryptography & Architecture

Requirements: We are looking for a candidate with a Master’s or PhD in Cryptography, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or a related field and at least twelve years of experience implementing and architecting classical cryptography in real products, in hardware, software or both. You have deep command of symmetric and asymmetric primitives, modes of operation, key management and entropy generation, and you have taken cryptographic subsystems through FIPS 140-3 or Common Criteria evaluation. You also bring a solid working knowledge of the NIST post-quantum algorithms (ML-KEM, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA) and their deployment constraints: you do not need to be a lattice specialist, but you must be able to architect hybrid schemes with one. You understand the practical constraints of deployed security infrastructure (HSMs, PKI, TLS and IPsec ecosystems) and how hybrid classical/post-quantum schemes are standardised and deployed in practice. You write precise specifications, guide implementers effectively, and make sound architecture decisions under real-world interoperability constraints. Fluency in English is required; French or German is an advantage. Proven architect of classical cryptographic subsystems with certification experience (FIPS 140-3, CAVP, Common Criteria) Practical knowledge of hybrid classical/PQC schemes, crypto agility and key-management architecture, with working command of the NIST PQC standards Preferred Qualifications: You believe that quantum-safe security is only as strong as the classical foundations it stands on. You enjoy being the guardian of correctness and interoperability in a programme pushing new technology, and you take pride in migrations that customers barely notice because they simply work. 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 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 Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location, and calibration against relevant market data and internal team equity. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401(k), unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. US Technical Jobs. The position you are applying for will require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying “U.S. Person” (e.g., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum) status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Please note that in the absence of confirming you are a U.S. Person for export control and government contracts work purposes, IonQ may choose not to apply for a license or decline to use a license exception (if available) for you to access export-controlled technology that may require authorization, and similarly, you may not qualify for government contracts work that requires U.S. Persons, and IonQ may decline to proceed with your application on those bases alone. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. US Non-Technical Jobs. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!