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 50000 - 65000 £ 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.
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, and 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.
Senior Facilities Engineer in Leeds employer: Oxford Ionics
At Oxford Ionics, now part of IonQ, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Senior Facilities Engineer, you will not only contribute to groundbreaking advancements in quantum computing but also enjoy a competitive salary, stock options, and comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance and generous annual leave. Our commitment to employee growth and development ensures that you will thrive in a dynamic environment where your contributions have a real-world impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Facilities Engineer in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Oxford Ionics or similar companies on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Make sure you can confidently discuss MEP systems, compliance frameworks, and any relevant experience you have in cleanroom environments.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled facilities issues in the past, especially in high-tech or regulated environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Facilities Engineer in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Keep Your CV Fresh:Before you hit that apply button, make sure your CV is up to date! Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Senior Facilities Engineer role. We want to see what makes you a great fit!
Read the Job Specs Carefully:Take a good look at the job description and requirements. Tailor your application to show how your background aligns with what we're looking for. It’s all about making that connection!
Show Off Your Compliance Knowledge:Since compliance is key in this role, don’t forget to mention your experience with UK compliance frameworks and any relevant qualifications. We love seeing candidates who understand the importance of safety and reliability!
Apply Through Our Website:When you're ready to apply, do it through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Ionics
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of MEP systems and compliance frameworks like L8 and fire safety regulations. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential asset to their team.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed facilities operations or resolved critical issues. This could include anything from handling HVAC failures to ensuring compliance during audits. Real-life stories resonate well!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with insightful questions about the company's facilities operations and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals.
✨Demonstrate a Safety Mindset
Be ready to discuss how you've prioritised safety in previous roles. Highlight any experiences where you challenged unsafe practices or ensured compliance across critical infrastructure. This is crucial for a role that involves managing contractor activities and maintaining operational safety.