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, and 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.
Senior Facilities Engineer in London 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 play a crucial role in maintaining our cutting-edge facilities but also benefit from a competitive salary, stock options, and opportunities for professional growth within a world-class team dedicated to transforming the future of quantum technology. With flexible hybrid working arrangements and comprehensive health benefits, we ensure our employees thrive both personally and professionally in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Facilities Engineer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their projects and values, especially in quantum technology. We want you to show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to get comfortable with common questions. We want you to walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Facilities Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with MEP systems and compliance frameworks. We want to see how your skills align with the Senior Facilities Engineer role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Off Your Technical Know-How:When writing your application, be specific about your experience with HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. We love candidates who can demonstrate their technical expertise, especially in high-tech environments like laboratories and cleanrooms.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point. Use bullet points for your key achievements and responsibilities, and make sure your documents are easy to read. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
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. Be ready to discuss your experience in high-tech environments, especially with HVAC and cleanroom operations.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled facilities issues in the past. Think about specific instances where you took ownership of a problem and resolved it, especially in critical situations like power loss or system failures.
✨Get Familiar with the Company
Research Oxford Ionics and their work in quantum computing. Understanding their mission and how your role as a Senior Facilities Engineer fits into their goals will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, compliance challenges, and future projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.