Electronics Lab Technician in Oxford

The Opportunity

Lumai is redefining how the world computes. We are an ambitious, venture-backed UK startup pioneering a breakthrough AI accelerator for data centers which uses 3D optical compute. Our radical technology uses light to perform computation at orders of magnitude faster speeds and at far greater scales than ever before, all whilst consuming far less energy than traditional approaches. Lumai is unlocking performance and efficiency gains that could transform the economics of AI and compute infrastructure and reshape how intelligence scales globally. If you are passionate about bringing groundbreaking technology to market, and want to be part of a team pushing the boundaries of what is physically possible, Lumai is where you can make it happen.

About Lumai

Founded in 2022, Lumai is a University of Oxford spinout using optical processing to accelerate large language models (LLMs) and other transformer-based AI systems. The team combines expertise in optical computing, machine learning, and physics. Lumai has already secured over $15 million in investment from leading deep-tech investors and is scaling rapidly to deploy the fastest optical compute currently available globally.

The Role

We are looking for an experienced Electronics Lab Technician to join our team. You will be working on cutting-edge research for optical computing. This involves a mix of electronics prototype production, assembly testing, and rework. There are also opportunities to work with the optics team and the mechanical team. You would “own” the electronics lab and control the stock, system parts and workflows within the lab. There would be a lot of involvement with selecting the test and measurement kit for the lab as we grow and expand our test, measurement and assembly capabilities.

What You'll Do

• Oversee and manage both optical and electronics laboratories, ensuring efficient operations and compliance with safety protocols.
• Monitor inventory levels across multiple equipment categories and coordinate restocking to maintain continuous operations.
• Maintain all laboratory equipment in optimal condition while tracking calibration schedules and coordinating service requirements.
• Provide critical support for R&D projects including executing test protocols, assembling functional prototypes, and troubleshooting technical challenges.

What We're Looking For

Must-Have

• Demonstrable ability to manage comprehensive lab inventory systems and perform proactive day-to-day maintenance to ensure optimal lab operations.
• Proficient in operating sophisticated electronics lab equipment including lab-grade power supplies, oscilloscopes, microscopes, and specialised diagnostic instruments.
• Skilled in the use of hand tools and workshop equipment such as precision drills, files, hammers, and fabrication tools for prototype development.
• Expertise with specialised electronics assembly tools including soldering stations, precision crimping tools, wire strippers, and controlled heat guns.
• Proven capability in general soldering and electronics assembly tasks, including fabrication of custom cable assemblies and precision PCB rework.
• Highly skilled in advanced soldering techniques for fine-pitch surface mount components, including challenging BGA (Ball Grid Array) packages.
• Experience executing and documenting pre-defined test routines with accuracy and attention to procedural compliance.
• Enthusiastic about acquiring new skills and mastering equipment for innovative manufacturing processes and emerging technologies.
• Flexible and proactive approach with strong judgment skills to determine optimal assembly methods for prototypes while balancing project constraints and timelines.

Strong Preference For

• Experience conducting JTAG boundary scan diagnostics; XJTAG platform experience particularly valued.
• Hands-on experience operating and maintaining 3D printers for rapid prototyping applications.
• Background working in optical laboratories with experience handling laser systems and optical equipment.
• Familiarity with wire-bond and die-bond machines for semiconductor packaging operations.
• Experience with sophisticated soldering systems including manual pick-and-place machines and programmable reflow ovens.

Compensation & Benefits

• Highly Competitive Salary: We are not saying our salary is a blank check, but let's just say it won't be a source of your stress.
• Share Option Scheme: We believe in shared success while we build the Lumai of tomorrow.
• Pension Scheme: Plan for retirement with AVIVA.
• Private Health Insurance: Look after yourself and your loved ones with AXA.
• Cycle to Work: Spread the cost of a bike, a bike and accessories or just accessories and save on tax.
• L&D Allowance: Stay at the forefront of your field with a £500 annual development budget.
• Subsidised On-site Lunches: Enjoy on-site healthy meals at half the price.
• Holidays: Enjoy 25 days paid holiday (plus bank holidays) per year.
• Socials: Be part of an inclusive community enjoying occasional all-company off-sites, lunches and socials.

Interview Process

Our process is four stages. An initial conversation with our HR team to understand what you want from the role and what we want from it. Two technical sessions with various members of our engineering team. Finally, an HR-team session covering scope, terms, and any final questions. We aim to move fast on candidates we are excited about; expect roughly three to four weeks end to end.

Lumai is an equal opportunity employer. We make hiring decisions on merit, scope-fit, and the strength of the working relationship we expect to build with each hire. Applications welcome from candidates of any background. If you are not sure whether you are a fit, send a note anyway.