Junior / Associate Mechanical Engineer

Infleqtion is a global quantum technology company solving the world's most challenging problems. The company harnesses quantum mechanics to build and integrate quantum computers, sensors, and networks. From fundamental physics to leading edge commercial products, Infleqtion enables "quantum everywhere" through our ecosystem of devices and platforms. Our mission is to commercialise atom-based quantum products that provide orders of magnitude improvements in performance and computing applications.

LOCATION: Infleqtion has offices in the USA, United Kingdom and Australia. This is a full‑time position split between our Kidlington, Oxford office and the National Quantum Computing Centre, Harwell. Work from home permitted up to 2 days per week based on business needs and manager approval.

Position Summary: We are looking for a recently qualified / graduate mechanical engineer to fulfil a varied and exciting position within our growing team. As a Junior / Associate Mechanical Engineer you will be exposed to a wide range of R&D activities, working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry to translate experimental concepts into engineered solutions. As a team we encourage a proactive hands‑on approach, giving our engineers the opportunity to research, design, build and test mechanical systems in a diverse and collaborative environment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Work alongside physicists and engineers to capture and interpret mechanical design requirements for optical and ultra‑high vacuum systems.
• Create CAD models, drawings, and documentation packages in accordance with company design guidelines and industry best practice.
• Use a combination of rapid prototyping and engineering analysis to guide design decisions, communicating findings to project leaders both verbally and through design documentation.
• Support research efforts by designing and assembling enclosures, jigs and fixtures using a combination of bought‑in components and basic machine tools.
• Work with the production team to assemble prototype and first‑off production systems, documenting feedback on DfM and DfA for future designs.
• Work with external suppliers to identify and procure appropriate custom and off‑the‑shelf components.

Requirements Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Optical Engineering, Mechatronics, Physics or similar field(s), or equivalent vocational qualification(s).

Skills & Experience:

• Experience with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Entrepreneurial drive, intellectual agility and personal eagerness to develop with the needs of the business.
• Passion for solving complex problems and challenges in a highly technical and scientific environment.
• Ability to work comfortably in a highly collaborative, cross‑functional, team‑oriented, and matrixed environment.

Though not essential, any of the following would also be desirable:

• 2 years industry experience in a relevant engineering role.
• Experience with free space or fibre optical system design, lasers or photonics.
• Experience with design for harsh dynamic environments (shock, vibration, temperature, humidity).
• Familiarity with magnetic field simulation and shielding.
• Experience in an ISO certified manufacturing environment using data management systems such as PDM, PLM or ERP.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements: Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment. Able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in‑person). Will involve sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and carrying up to 10 kg.

TRAVEL: Up to 10% travel may be required.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: Regardless of your interest in the quantum industry, you can take pride in the fact that Infleqtion is building an ecosystem of quantum technologies and commercial products, driving the industry towards the future. Studies reveal that while men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the requirements, women and other groups tend to apply only when they meet all the criteria. If you believe you have the potential but don't meet every single point in our job advertisement, please don't hesitate to contact us! We would love to chat with you and see how you could bring great value to our team. Our goal is to find exceptional individuals who can enrich our team culture, actively contribute, and have a genuine passion for their work. Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin colour, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Unlimited PTO
• Generous company 10% pension contribution regardless of employee contribution
• Cycle to work and Technology schemes
• Incentive Stock Option Plan
• BUPA Private Healthcare Insurance once probationary period is successfully completed