Quantum Standardisation Specialist

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 seeking a Standardisation Specialist to join the Science Department at ID Quantique. In this role, you will lead and strengthen IDQ’s participation in global QKD-related standardisation activities, helping to shape and influence emerging standards. You will contribute to advancing the technical foundations of quantum-secure communications, ensuring that our scientific innovations are translated into internationally recognised standards and certification pathways.

You will play a key role in defining standards, processes, and evaluation methodologies that underpin our work, supporting the development of some of the world’s most advanced quantum technologies and reinforcing IDQ’s position at the forefront of the field.

What you'll be doing

We are seeking a Standardisation Specialist to contribute to the delivery of our Science Department’s objectives and the wider Certification & Standardisation strategy. In this role, you will draft, review, and enhance QKD-related standards across international bodies such as ETSI and ITU-T, while monitoring global standardisation developments and assessing their impact on product design, certification requirements, and delivery timelines. You will also ensure alignment between standardisation outputs and certification needs, including Common Criteria-based frameworks, and support Security Target development with standards-informed input across system design and architecture.

You will play a key role in influencing global QKD evaluation frameworks and guiding protocol standardisation, helping to strengthen IDQ’s visibility and leadership within the quantum security ecosystem. Working closely with internal teams and external stakeholders—including evaluation laboratories, certification bodies such as BSI and IPA, and academic partners—you will coordinate technical contributions across the organisation and support global harmonisation efforts. This position offers the opportunity to identify and lead new standardisation initiatives, contribute to next-generation system development, and directly support IDQ’s certification roadmap.

• Contributing to and shaping QKD-related standards, monitoring international developments, aligning standardisation with certification frameworks, supporting Security Target development, and producing internal technical guidance to inform Engineering, R&D, Product, and Certification teams
• Collaborating across internal divisions and external stakeholders, identifying leadership opportunities in new work items, coordinating technical input organisation-wide, and supporting global harmonisation and IDQ’s positioning across European, Asian, and US standardisation landscapes

What you'll bring

To succeed in this role, you will bring a strong foundation in quantum key distribution, cryptography, and security principles, including a solid understanding of QKD attack vectors and countermeasures. You will have hands-on experience in drafting technical specifications or contributing to standardisation activities, familiarity with photonics-based QKD system components, and exposure to evaluation or certification frameworks such as Common Criteria.

You will be able to translate complex technical concepts into practical standardisation outcomes, engage confidently with both internal and external stakeholders, and contribute effectively within a fast-moving, highly technical environment.

You'll be a great fit with

We are looking for a Standardisation Specialist with experience contributing to international working groups such as ETSI, ITU-T, ISO, IEEE, IETF, or similar bodies. You will bring a strong technical understanding of quantum key distribution, quantum communications, optical networks, photonics, or modern cryptographic systems, along with the ability to draft clear, well-structured technical documentation and interpret normative specifications. Knowledge of QKD attack vectors and countermeasures—and their relevance to evaluation methodologies—will be key, alongside familiarity with Common Criteria, EUCC, or related certification processes.

You will work closely with Engineering, R&D, Product Management, and Certification teams to align requirements and outputs, using strong analytical skills to assess the impact of evolving standards on system design and certification activities. With excellent communication skills, you will represent IDQ in expert groups and technical discussions, while demonstrating initiative in proposing and leading new standardisation efforts. A structured, proactive approach to problem-solving, curiosity, and an interest in secure-by-design or wider cybersecurity frameworks will support your success in this role.

Key requirements include:

• Proven experience in standardisation environments, strong technical expertise across QKD and related domains, and the ability to produce and interpret high-quality technical specifications, including knowledge of evaluation methodologies and certification frameworks
• Strong collaboration, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to align cross-functional teams, assess the impact of standards, represent IDQ externally, and take ownership of new initiatives with a structured and proactive approach

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.