At a Glance
- Tasks: Support critical facilities operations in cutting-edge quantum computing environments.
- Company: Join Oxford Ionics, a leader in quantum technology innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team shaping the future of quantum computing.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical, or Building Services.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Quantum is now, and it's built here. Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, is pioneering the next generation of quantum computing. Using our world-leading trapped-ion technology, we're building the most powerful, accurate and reliable quantum systems to tackle problems that today's supercomputers cannot solve. Joining Oxford Ionics means becoming part of a global IonQ team that is transforming the future of quantum technology - faster, at scale, and with real world impact.
What to expect: We are seeking a Senior Facilities Engineer to support the safe, compliant, and reliable operation of critical facilities infrastructure across laboratory, cleanroom, and technical manufacturing environments. This is a hands-on, front-line role responsible for executing day-to-day facilities operations, owning routine compliance tasks, and maintaining control of site activities. The role is expected to take direct ownership of facilities issues, ensuring they are managed through to resolution. The position works closely with the Head of Facilities and is critical in ensuring that compliance, contractor control, and system reliability do not rely on a single point of failure.
What you'll be responsible for: The role involves carrying out planned preventative and reactive maintenance across HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to support the reliable operation of critical utilities, including Process Chilled Water (PCW), Chilled Water (CHW), HVAC systems for controlled environments, and basic gas and utility distribution systems. Responsibilities include acting as a first responder to facilities faults and system issues, taking ownership through to resolution by performing fault finding, diagnostics, and escalation where required. The position also requires completion of routine compliance activities while ensuring effective system performance, reliability, and safety across site operations. A key part of the role is day-to-day compliance ownership, including conducting fire alarm and life safety testing, Legionella control checks (L8), safety inspections, and basic statutory checks. Accurate, audit-ready records must be maintained at all times, with responsibility for supporting audits and ensuring documentation remains complete, well-structured, and easily accessible. The role also involves proactively identifying and escalating compliance risks where necessary.
You will manage and control contractor activities on site, ensuring RAMS are reviewed, understood, and followed correctly, while Permit-to-Work systems are applied appropriately. All contractor works must be completed safely and to the required standards, with unsafe practices challenged immediately and work stopped if required. Responsibility also includes ensuring all associated documentation, certification, and completion records are captured accurately. The position supports facilities operations across laboratory, ISO cleanroom, and technical manufacturing environments, helping maintain controlled conditions such as temperature, airflow, and cleanliness systems. You will assist with the installation, relocation, and setup of equipment and infrastructure, coordinating key interfaces including power, cooling, and other associated services required for new equipment integration. In addition, you will raise, track, and close work orders using the CMMS system while maintaining accurate asset registers and maintenance records. The role includes supporting calibration tracking activities and contributing to the development and continuous improvement of SOPs and maintenance procedures. You will also respond to facilities incidents such as power loss, leaks, and system failures, taking ownership through to resolution or escalation as needed, while supporting emergency response procedures, business continuity activities, and participating in an on-call rota where required.
Additional responsibilities include:
- Carrying out minor repairs and general fabric maintenance across the site.
- Supporting goods-in, logistics activities, and equipment movement when required.
- Maintaining stock levels of critical spares and consumables.
- Supporting flexible day-to-day facilities and site operations to ensure continuity and efficiency.
Requirements: To be successful in this role, you will need an NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds qualification, HNC, or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical, or Building Services, alongside 3-5 years of experience within high-tech, laboratory, cleanroom, semiconductor, manufacturing, or similarly regulated environments. We are looking for someone with a strong working knowledge of MEP systems and building services, experience using CMMS systems, and a solid understanding of UK compliance frameworks, including L8, fire safety, and health & safety regulations. You will need to be confident interpreting technical drawings, SOPs, and specifications, while supporting critical laboratory and manufacturing operations where uptime, reliability, and compliance are essential.
You'd be a great fit with:
- Experience supporting cleanroom (ISO 58) environments
- Experience with PCW / CHW systems or critical cooling infrastructure
- Familiarity with BMS platforms (e.g. Trend, Tridium Niagara)
- IOSH qualification or equivalent
- Experience working in audit-driven environments (GLP / GMP)
Additional experience that would be beneficial includes working within laboratory and cleanroom environments while following gowning and contamination control procedures, participating in on-call support and occasional out-of-hours or weekend working, and demonstrating a strong safety mindset with the confidence to challenge unsafe acts and ensure compliance across critical facilities infrastructure and operations.
Benefits: Be part of a team that's shaping the future of quantum. We offer more than just a role, you'll join a world class community of scientists, engineers and innovators working to unlock the full potential of quantum computing. We offer a range of benefits, including opportunities to further your career alongside industry leaders, a competitive salary with IonQ stock options, an annual performance bonus, generous annual leave, flexible hybrid working, private medical and dental insurance for you and your family, and much more. Join us and be part of the future of quantum computing. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Engineer - Controls Engineering employer: Oxford Ionics
At Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, we are at the forefront of quantum computing innovation, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and creativity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through opportunities for career advancement alongside industry leaders, competitive salaries with stock options, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible working arrangements and private medical insurance. Join us in shaping the future of technology while being part of a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to making a real-world impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineer - Controls Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the quantum computing field, especially those at Oxford Ionics or similar companies. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a project showcase that highlights your experience with MEP systems and compliance frameworks. This will give you an edge during interviews and show that you're ready to tackle the hands-on challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get comfortable with common interview questions related to facilities engineering and compliance. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to refine your answers and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Oxford Ionics and being part of the quantum revolution.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineer - Controls Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior Facilities Engineer. Highlight your experience with MEP systems, compliance frameworks, and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about quantum technology and how your skills can contribute to our mission. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've tackled facilities issues or improved compliance processes. We’re looking for someone who takes ownership and can resolve challenges effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Oxford Ionics!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Ionics
✨Know Your Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of MEP systems and building services. Be ready to discuss your experience with HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as any specific projects you've worked on that relate to these areas.
✨Showcase Compliance Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with UK compliance frameworks like L8 and fire safety regulations. Prepare examples of how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, especially in high-tech or regulated environments, as this will demonstrate your understanding of the importance of safety and reliability.
✨Be Hands-On
Since this role is very hands-on, be prepared to talk about your troubleshooting skills and experiences. Share specific instances where you acted as a first responder to facilities faults and how you took ownership of resolving those issues.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to CMMS systems and your ability to interpret technical drawings and SOPs. Practise explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as this will show your communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.