Senior Equipment Design Engineer in Reading

Senior Equipment Design Engineer in Reading

Reading Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and manage advanced test equipment for cutting-edge quantum computers.
  • Company: Join OQC, a leader in quantum computing innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, unique lab infrastructure, and a culture of bold innovation.
  • Other info: Opportunity for hands-on experience and career growth in a dynamic environment.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team redefining the future of computation.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; CAD expertise required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ 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. Our Equipment Design Engineers are the architects of our progress, creating the bespoke test environments and high‑precision rigs that allow us to validate the future of quantum computation. If you're driven to push the absolute boundaries of R&D and engineer the breakthroughs that will redefine human computation, then you belong here.

The Role

To build the world's most advanced quantum computers, we first have to build the machines that test them. We are looking for a Senior Equipment Design Engineer to own the lifecycle of our test infrastructure. You aren't just designing parts; you are providing the "final design authority" for the mission‑critical test beds and stands that support our entire development roadmap. Your challenge is one of synthesis: taking complex requirements from our Science and Innovation teams and translating them into robust, physical reality. You are being hired to ensure that our R&D cycles are fast, accurate, and supported by world‑class engineering equipment designed specifically for the unique demands of quantum hardware.

What You'll Be Working On

  • Specify: Assess current equipment capabilities and compile the definitive suite of required test stands and beds for the OQC roadmap.
  • Design: Create full machine schematics and detailed equipment designs using 3D CAD, from initial concept to final detail.
  • Lead: Manage the end‑to‑end procurement, manufacture, and assembly of test rigs, ensuring they meet rigorous internal specifications.
  • Commission: Partner with R&D teams to test and validate new equipment, ensuring absolute compliance with design specifications.
  • Iterate: Maintain and evolve the existing fleet, implementing iterative design improvements to keep pace with our rapid innovation cycles.
  • Manage: Take full Project Management responsibility—owning the scope, timeline, and budget for our test equipment infrastructure.

What We're Looking For

We value strong fundamentals, technical curiosity, and a passion for challenging problems.

Core Experience

  • Machine Design: Extensive experience in the end‑to‑end design and manufacture of complex machines or industrial equipment.
  • CAD Mastery: Expert‑level skills in 3D CAD, preferably SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
  • Engineering Principles: A rock‑solid grasp of fundamental engineering principles across mechanical and electrical disciplines.
  • Project Leadership: Proven ability to manage technical projects, covering scope, time, and budget planning.
  • Collaboration: A track record of synthesizing information from multiple engineering disciplines into a cohesive design.
  • Academic Foundation: A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, or a similar technical field.

Nice to Haves

  • Experience with the design or use of dilution refrigerators and cryogenic systems.
  • Hands‑on experience with the mechanical installation of test rigs or fixtures.
  • Background in supplier management and technical procurement.

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.

Senior Equipment Design Engineer in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)

At OQC, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of bold innovation and collaboration, where our Senior Equipment Design Engineers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of quantum computing. Located in a cutting-edge facility, we offer competitive benefits, a supportive work environment, and ample opportunities for professional growth, allowing you to thrive as you contribute to groundbreaking advancements in technology.

Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)

Contact Details:

Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Equipment Design Engineer in Reading

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at OQC on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your best design projects to interviews. This is your chance to demonstrate your CAD mastery and project leadership in action.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your engineering principles and be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex machine design challenges in the past.

Tip Number 4

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 OQC team.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Equipment Design Engineer in Reading

Machine Design
3D CAD
SolidWorks
AutoCAD
Engineering Principles
Project Management
Technical Project Leadership

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Innovation:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for pushing boundaries shine through. We want to see how your drive aligns with our mission of redefining human computation. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenging problems in the past!

Highlight Your Technical Skills:Make sure to showcase your expertise in machine design and 3D CAD. Mention any relevant projects where you’ve used SolidWorks or AutoCAD. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so don’t hold back on your technical prowess!

Demonstrate Project Management Experience:Since you'll be managing the lifecycle of our test infrastructure, it’s crucial to highlight your project management skills. Talk about your experience with scope, timeline, and budget planning. We want to know how you keep everything on track!

Tailor Your Application to Us:Take a moment to personalise your application for OQC. Mention why you’re excited about working with us specifically and how your background fits into our vision. Remember, applying through our website is the best way to get noticed!

How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC)

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your machine design and engineering principles. Be ready to discuss your experience with complex machines and how you've tackled challenging problems in the past. This role is all about translating complex requirements into reality, so show them you can do just that!

Show Off Your CAD Skills

Since they're looking for someone with expert-level skills in 3D CAD, particularly SolidWorks and AutoCAD, be prepared to talk about specific projects where you've used these tools. Bring examples of your work or even a portfolio if you can. Demonstrating your CAD mastery will set you apart!

Project Management Prowess

This position requires strong project management skills, so come armed with examples of how you've managed scope, timelines, and budgets in previous roles. Be ready to explain how you keep projects on track and ensure compliance with specifications—this will show you're the right fit for leading their test equipment infrastructure.

Collaborate and Communicate

Highlight your ability to collaborate with R&D teams and synthesize information from various engineering disciplines. They want someone who can bring together different perspectives to create cohesive designs. Share stories of successful teamwork and how you’ve navigated complex communication challenges in the past.