Staff Cryptography Engineer

Responsibilities

• Implement and maintain reference, bit-accurate, and optimized software models for ML-KEM, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA, and LMS.
• Develop constant-time implementations of cryptographic functions in C, C++, and Rust.
• Build known-answer-test and test-vector tooling using NIST ACVP for verification and CAVP certification.
• Decompose algorithms into hardware-friendly components including Keccak, NTT, polynomial arithmetic, samplers, and encode/decode operations.
• Support RTL and firmware engineers with algorithm questions, debugging, and certification-oriented tooling.
• Evaluate third-party cryptographic libraries.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in cryptography, mathematics, computer science, or a related field; PhD is a plus.
• At least five years of experience implementing cryptographic algorithms or security-critical software in C, C++, or Rust.
• Strong hands-on C, C++, or Rust development skills and solid understanding of modern cryptographic primitives.
• Understanding of constant-time implementation and its security importance.
• Ideally, exposure to post-quantum schemes, including lattice-based or hash-based cryptography, and their underlying mathematics.
• Familiarity with NIST test-vector formats, CAVP, or ACVP and certification-oriented development is preferred.
• Fluency in English is required; French or German is advantageous.
• Ability to write readable, well-tested code and work on products with demanding correctness and security requirements.

Benefits

• The role is based onsite in Geneva, Switzerland, with flexible work models also offered.
• Competitive compensation, benefits package, and equity plan; no specific base salary is posted.
• Ongoing training, development, and a career development plan within IonQ group companies.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401(k), unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend.
• Global collaboration in a close-knit environment with access to experienced cryptographic engineers.