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- Tasks: Maintain and build infrastructure for cutting-edge quantum computers in a fast-paced team.
- Company: Join a pioneering company at the forefront of quantum computing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking technology that shapes the future of computing.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical settings and strong problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with hands-on work and excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We’re building the future of quantum computing and we’re looking for an Engineering Technician to maintain and build the infrastructure and environments that house OQC’s quantum computers. You’ll be joining a collaborative, fast-paced team where your hands-on technical skills, problem-solving mindset and commitment to safety will enable our engineers to focus on what matters most: accelerating our mission.
You’ll come with experience from a technical or industrial setting, where you’ve kept mechanical assemblies running smoothly - whether that’s scientific equipment, water systems, or manifolds. You understand the importance of doing things safely and properly, and you’ve had a hand in writing processes, procedures, or risk assessments that keep people and environments protected. You’re the kind of person who keeps a space humming: labs operational, equipment well-maintained, and systems performing at their best. Your work will directly support the breakthroughs that define OQC. So we will need you to be organised, proactive, and comfortable juggling tasks across projects. You know how to coordinate with external vendors, and you don’t mind jumping on a train or plane when hands-on work with our globally deployed devices is needed.
Reporting to the Laboratory Supervisor, you will:
- Support the build, maintenance and smooth operation of our quantum computers and systems including dilution refrigerators.
- Assist with building, assembling and maintaining mechanical, electrical and electronic components.
- Help maintain safe and organised technical spaces by following Health & Safety protocols and supporting day-to-day upkeep.
- Respond to technical incidents in the lab, helping to troubleshoot issues and escalating when needed.
- Keep accurate records of incidents, maintenance activities and technical updates on agreed platforms.
- Ensure the lab is well stocked by conducting regular checks and coordinating with the Stores Controller.
- Support the setup, maintenance and improvement of equipment used across our technical workspaces.
- Monitor cryogen levels and assist with regular ordering and scheduling to keep systems running reliably.
Working with quantum computers means working at the frontier of what’s technically possible, so you’ll need a solid foundation in hands-on skills—such as electrical testing, mechanical assembly or maintaining scientific equipment—and a willingness to grow into areas like cryogenic systems, vacuum equipment and high-pressure gas handling. We’re looking for people who stay adaptable, communicate openly and enjoy creative problem-solving. A natural focus on quality, good organisational habits and confident decision-making will help you contribute effectively as our technology and team continue to scale.
The right candidate will be able to work on-site full time, is comfortable with the physical nature of the role, and holds a valid driving licence to travel between locations, ideally with experience driving a van, though this is a bonus rather than a requirement. They should also be willing to take part in an on-call rota to support operational needs. The role will also require international travel to work on deployed systems, sometimes at short notice.
Your contribution will help our teams stay focused, move quickly and continue delivering the technology shaping the future of quantum computing.
Engineering Technician in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)
Contact Detail:
Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Technician in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the quantum computing field, attend industry events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, share specific examples of how you've tackled technical challenges in previous roles. This will demonstrate your problem-solving mindset and experience in maintaining complex systems.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive about following up! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly. Plus, it gives you a better chance to showcase your fit for the Engineering Technician role and the unique skills you bring to the table.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Technician in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your hands-on technical skills. We want to see how your experience with mechanical assemblies or scientific equipment can contribute to our mission in quantum computing.
Safety First!: Don’t forget to mention your commitment to safety and any experience you have with writing processes or risk assessments. We take safety seriously, and showing us that you do too will definitely catch our eye!
Be Organised and Proactive: In your application, let us know how you stay organised and manage multiple tasks. We love candidates who can juggle projects while keeping everything running smoothly—so share some examples of how you've done this in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you into our system. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at OQC!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your technical skills related to mechanical assemblies, electrical components, and scientific equipment. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully maintained or built similar systems.
✨Safety First!
Since safety is a big deal in this role, be prepared to talk about your experience with Health & Safety protocols. Share any processes or risk assessments you've contributed to, and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of a few scenarios where you've had to troubleshoot technical issues. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you approached the problem. This will show that you're not just hands-on but also a critical thinker.
✨Be Organised and Proactive
Highlight your organisational skills by discussing how you manage multiple tasks and projects. Mention any tools or methods you use to keep track of maintenance activities and ensure everything runs smoothly in a fast-paced environment.