At a Glance
- Tasks: Support engineering design and manufacturing processes for cutting-edge quantum computing systems.
- Company: Join OQC, a pioneering company in quantum technology with a culture of bold innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, complete a degree-level qualification, and enjoy a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression into roles like Design Release Engineer or Project Manager.
- Why this job: Be part of the future of technology and see your work make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Interest in engineering or design, studying STEM subjects, and some CAD exposure.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
At OQC, we aren't just theorising about the future; we're building it. Born from a philosophy of bold innovation, we've successfully transitioned quantum computing from an academic dream into a commercial reality. The most exciting thing is that we're just getting started.
The Mission
As an Engineering Design Apprentice at OQC, you'll help bridge the gap between engineering design and real-world manufacturing as we scale the next generation of quantum computing systems. Working within our Engineering Operations and R&D teams, you'll support the release and lifecycle management of critical design data, ensuring our systems can be built, improved, and deployed reliably across the globe. This is a hands‑on apprenticeship designed for someone curious about engineering, design, manufacturing, and how complex products move from concept into reality.
The Role
You'll join our Engineering Operations team and work closely with Design Engineers, R&D teams, Supply Chain, Technicians, and Project Management to support the design release process for OQC quantum systems. This role has a strong focus on design release, product lifecycle management, and manufacturing readiness. You'll learn how engineering data is captured, controlled, and released into production environments — helping ensure our systems are scalable, manufacturable, and continuously improving. Alongside your day‑to‑day work, you'll complete your apprenticeship qualification through our partnered training provider, University Centre Newbury.
What You'll Be Working On
- Supporting the management and maintenance of Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering documentation
- Assisting with design release and change control processes to ensure manufacturing data accuracy
- Supporting Design Engineers with CAD activities, including 3D models and assembly drawings using SOLIDWORKS
- Helping capture and manage "design for build" updates from R&D and engineering teams
- Supporting lifecycle management processes as products move from concept through to manufacture and deployment
- Assisting with light project coordination activities and rollout support across engineering projects
- Working cross‑functionally with Design, R&D, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Technicians, and Project teams to improve processes and product quality
What We're Looking For
- A genuine interest in engineering, manufacturing, design, or how products are built
- Studying STEM‑related subjects such as Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Design Technology, or similar
- Predicted or achieved A‑Level grades of C or above in relevant STEM subjects, or equivalent Level 3/BTEC qualifications
- Some exposure to CAD tools or technical design work
- Strong attention to detail and an eagerness to learn
- Curious, proactive, and comfortable asking questions and working with different teams
- Able to communicate clearly and work collaboratively in a team environment
- Enthusiasm for hands‑on projects, building things, 3D printing, electronics, mechanical projects, or similar extracurricular interests
The 'Nice-to-Haves'
- Experience using SOLIDWORKS or similar CAD software
- Exposure to engineering projects through school, hobbies, clubs, or personal projects
- Awareness of manufacturing, assembly, or product lifecycle processes
- Interest in project management or continuous improvement methodologies
- Experience working on collaborative or team‑based technical projects
Why Join OQC
You will join a world‑class team at the forefront of the next computational era. We offer a culture of bold innovation, the chance to work with unique lab infrastructure, and the opportunity to see your work redefine the limits of computation. This apprenticeship offers exposure to the full engineering lifecycle within a cutting‑edge quantum technology company. You'll gain practical experience across design, manufacturing, product release, and engineering operations while completing your degree‑level qualification. Successful apprentices may progress into future roles such as:
- Design Release Engineer
- Mechanical Design Engineer
- Project Manager
Learn more about our benefits and positive work culture here: https://oqc.tech/company/careers-at-oqc/
Hands-on Design & Build Apprentice (CAD/SOLIDWORKS) in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)
At OQC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters bold innovation and collaboration. As a Design & Build Apprentice, you'll not only gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge quantum technology but also benefit from a structured apprenticeship programme through our partnership with University Centre Newbury, ensuring your professional growth. With opportunities to progress into roles such as Design Release Engineer or Project Manager, OQC is committed to nurturing talent and redefining the future of computation.
Contact Details:
Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hands-on Design & Build Apprentice (CAD/SOLIDWORKS) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get hands-on! If you can, try to get some practical experience with CAD tools like SOLIDWORKS before your interview. It’ll show that you’re not just interested in theory but are ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of engineering design.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at OQC on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This insider info can give you a leg up during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your interests in engineering and design align with OQC’s mission. Be ready to discuss specific projects or experiences that highlight your curiosity and problem-solving skills.
✨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 serious about joining the OQC team and contributing to the future of quantum computing.
We think you need these skills to ace Hands-on Design & Build Apprentice (CAD/SOLIDWORKS) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering:Let us see your genuine interest in engineering, design, and manufacturing. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your curiosity and eagerness to learn. This will help us understand why you're excited about this apprenticeship!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your exposure to CAD tools and any STEM-related subjects you've studied. We want to see how you fit into our mission!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
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 shows you’re serious about joining our team at OQC!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)
✨Know Your CAD Basics
Make sure you brush up on your CAD skills, especially with SOLIDWORKS. Be ready to discuss any projects you've worked on using CAD tools, and if possible, bring along a portfolio of your designs. This shows your hands-on experience and genuine interest in engineering design.
✨Understand the Engineering Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the product lifecycle processes mentioned in the job description. Be prepared to talk about how products move from concept to manufacture and deployment. Showing that you understand these concepts will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics or specific projects OQC is working on. This not only shows your curiosity but also your eagerness to engage with different teams and learn more about the company’s innovative approach.
✨Show Your Passion for Hands-On Projects
Share your experiences with hands-on projects, whether they’re school assignments, personal hobbies, or extracurricular activities. Highlighting your enthusiasm for building things and working on mechanical projects can set you apart as a candidate who truly fits the culture at OQC.
