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- Tasks: Join a team building and integrating cutting-edge quantum systems with hands-on implementation.
- Company: Be part of Oxford Ionics, a leader in the quantum computing revolution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stock options, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of technology while working with top experts.
- Qualifications: Strong background in AMO physics and hands-on lab experience required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
Core to our mission is scaling quantum compute devices and systems in a technologically realistic and cost-effective way. We are looking for a Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer to work at our Oxford headquarters as part of the team responsible for the hands-on implementation, integration, and repeatable build of our lab-based AMO subsystems. This role is explicitly focused on execution and reliability: joining an existing project, owning the implementation, solving tricky build issues, and improving the process each time we build.
In this position, you will work on building and integrating AMO / laser-optics-heavy systems, ensuring they can be assembled, debugged, commissioned, and improved repeatedly. You will help define what "good" looks like for a build, create repeatable integration flows, and perform practical troubleshooting with minimal supervision. You'll have the opportunity to reduce build pain, accelerate commissioning, improve reliability, and establish the processes/trackers that make complex lab systems repeatable.
Key responsibilities include:
- Inspection and verification of subsystems/components at various stages of build using appropriate tools and measurements (e.g., optical inspection/metrology, performance checks, diagnostic measurements)
- Preparation of parts and assemblies before and after integration, including careful cleaning/handling processes in a lab environment (where relevant)
- Organisation of packaging/integration activities with 3rd party suppliers, working closely with internal owners (e.g., optics, packaging, electronics) for new development and build turnarounds
- Clear reporting of build metrics such as build status, commissioning progress, repeat issues, and reliability trends
- Preparation of test assemblies and samples, including small-scale mounting, cabling, fibre handling/alignment where applicable, and support of in-house build-enablement steps
- Organisation of the BOM required to complete builds (e.g., optics parts, mounts/hardware, cables, PCBs/substrates as needed, fibres and related components), ensuring builds are not blocked by missing items
- Pre-deployment testing / commissioning and failure analysis: set up repeatable checks, diagnose faults, drive issues to resolution, and capture learnings so the next build is easier
- Work cross-functionally with system scientists, engineers, and technicians to translate design intent into robust implementation, procedures, and repeatable integration flows
Requirements:
To be successful, you will need strong foundations in experimental AMO physics and hands-on lab build experience; particularly with laser optics. We're looking for someone who can solve practical problems, work across teams and suppliers, and take a system from "in-progress build" to "commissioned and repeatable". You'd be a great fit with an AMO / experimental physics background, with strong optics/laser experience.
Evidence you can define build/integration flows, troubleshoot independently, and apply clear technical thinking in a hands-on environment. Comfort working with both internal and external stakeholders/suppliers, keeping complex builds moving.
One of the following experience profiles:
- Master's + 3+ years highly relevant hands-on experience, or
- Relevant PhD, or
- Adjacent PhD + ~1 year relevant industry/lab training.
Useful extras (strong plus):
- Commissioning experience, electronics/instrumentation, programming/scripting.
Desirable skills (nice to have):
- Exposure to cryo-adjacent hardware integration or working around cryogenic constraints
- Experience with precision assembly techniques and careful lab build practices
- Familiarity with PCB technologies / supply chain and practical build logistics
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.
Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer in Oxford employer: Oxford Ionics
Contact Detail:
Oxford Ionics Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer in Oxford
✨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 just lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into quantum computing topics. Brush up on AMO physics and laser optics, and be ready to discuss how your hands-on experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to share specific examples of tricky build issues you've tackled in the past. This will demonstrate your practical experience and reliability.
✨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 Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with AMO physics and lab builds. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Oxford Ionics, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give us examples of tricky build issues you've tackled in the past. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot and improve processes, so share those success stories!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and achievements, as this will help us quickly understand your fit for the Systems Integration & Commissioning Engineer role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Oxford Ionics!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Ionics
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your experimental AMO physics and hands-on lab build experience, especially with laser optics. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you tackled practical problems in a lab environment.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've defined build/integration flows and troubleshot issues independently. Think of scenarios where you improved processes or resolved tricky build challenges, as this will demonstrate your ability to take a system from 'in-progress' to 'commissioned'.
✨Get Familiar with the Team Dynamics
Understand the importance of cross-functional collaboration. Be prepared to talk about your experience working with internal teams and external suppliers, and how you kept complex builds moving smoothly. This shows you're a team player who can communicate effectively.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company’s vision for quantum computing. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into how you can contribute to their mission. Plus, it helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
