Distinguished PQC Cryptography & Architecture Leader

Job Description

Job Title: Distinguished PQC Cryptography & Architecture Leader. Location: Geneva, Switzerland (Onsite)

Responsibilities:

• Define the system architecture and microarchitecture of a multi-algorithm PQC accelerator implementing ML-KEM, ML-DSA, and SLH-DSA/LMS.

• Determine hardware and firmware partitioning, throughput requirements, and processing lane sizing based on real customer traffic models.

• Establish stable core-interface specifications that allow cryptographic cores to evolve without changing the overall interface.

• Own the cryptographic algorithm and standards strategy, including NIST FIPS 203, FIPS 204, FIPS 205, CNSA 2.0, and FIPS 140-3.

• Lead make-or-buy decisions and IP-licensing strategies;

• Define security and certification architecture in collaboration with side-channel security and compliance specialists.

• Establish the technical roadmap for the PQC hardware acceleration product line, from initial concept through product delivery.

• Make and oversee critical technical decisions across cryptography, hardware, software, and security disciplines.

• Mentor senior engineers responsible for different technical areas;

• Represent the programme and its technology to customers, standards bodies, certification laboratories, and executive stakeholders.

• Lead the development of secure hardware products, including accelerators, secure elements, and HSM-class systems.

Qualifications:

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Cryptography, or a related field.

• At least 15 years of experience architecting complex digital security hardware.

• Deep, hands-on experience implementing cryptographic systems, with strong expertise in post-quantum cryptography.

• Proven experience taking accelerators, secure elements, or HSM-class systems from specification through production on multiple occasions.

• Recognised expertise in cryptographic or security hardware products.

• Strong knowledge of PQC algorithms and standards, including FIPS 203, FIPS 204, FIPS 205, CNSA 2.0, and FIPS 140-3.

• Demonstrated technical leadership across multiple engineering disciplines;

• Experience mentoring senior technical specialists and representing technology to external stakeholders.

• Ability to discuss lattice-based cryptography with cryptographers, FPGA timing closure with hardware designers, and certification strategies with FIPS laboratories.

• Strong decision-making skills, including evaluating build, buy, and partnership opportunities.

• Ability to communicate and defend technical architecture decisions to customers and executive committees.

• Fluency in English is required.

• French or German language skills are an advantage.

Preferred:

• Ability to work effectively in ambiguous environments and take ownership of complex technical programmes.

• Ability to turn strategic objectives into practical architectures, development plans, and production-ready products.

• Strong commitment to quality, security, and technical excellence.

• Ability to lead through technical expertise, clear communication, and collaboration.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package.

• Equity plan designed to reward performance and contribution.

• Flexible working arrangements.

• Ongoing training and professional development.

• Career development opportunities within IonQ group companies.

• Opportunity to work with a global team of quantum technology experts;

• Collaborative and performance-driven working environment.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Matching 401(k).

• Unlimited paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.

• Parental and adoption leave.

• Legal insurance.

• Home technology stipend.

Application Instructions:

• Apply through IonQ's careers portal.

• Provide your first name, last name, email address, phone number, and country.

• Upload your resume/CV in PDF, DOC, DOCX, TXT, or RTF format, or enter it manually.

• A cover letter can also be submitted in PDF, DOC, DOCX, TXT, or RTF format.

• Provide your LinkedIn profile. A website link is optional.

• Answer questions about your current work authorization, future visa sponsorship requirements, third-country national status, citizenship or dual citizenship, and current location.

• Review and accept the applicant privacy notice and background check disclosure and consent.

Additional Information:

• The role is based onsite in Geneva, Switzerland.

• Employment is subject to applicable background and risk screening.

• Screening may include verification of identity, employment history, education, and professional qualifications, as well as sanctions, restricted-party, watchlist, adverse media, public-record, and other legally permitted checks.

• Criminal and court record checks may be conducted where legally accessible and permitted.

• Personal data may be processed in countries where IonQ or its service providers operate, including the United States and Switzerland, with appropriate safeguards where required.

• Providing background-check information is voluntary, but failure to provide required information or consent may prevent employment from starting or continuing.

• IonQ is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair treatment and a respectful working environment.