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- Tasks: Lead a team to design and deliver cutting-edge quantum computing hardware.
- Company: OQC, a pioneer in quantum computing innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a bold team driving the next wave of technological advancement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology and make a real impact in quantum computing.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in leading engineering projects.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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.
You will lead the development and delivery of critical quantum computing hardware, driving design excellence from concept through to manufacture. You’ll shape how our designs move from idea to release, building scalable processes that power our technology roadmap.
The Role
You will lead a high-performing Design Engineering team responsible for the design, analysis, prototyping, and manufacture of quantum computing components across cryogenic and room temperature environments. Alongside this, you’ll establish and own the design release function—defining processes, implementing tooling, and ensuring seamless collaboration across science, engineering, and operations.
What You’ll Be Working On
- Leading and developing a team of design engineers to deliver high-quality engineering designs and components
- Owning end-to-end design delivery, including analysis, prototyping, and manufacturing via internal and external capabilities
- Defining and implementing the design release process across the quantum computing stack
- Driving supplier strategy, including sourcing, performance management, and ensuring continuity of supply
- Managing project delivery, tracking progress, and reporting to senior leadership with real-time insights
- Identifying and mitigating project risks, providing actionable recommendations to maintain delivery momentum
- Overseeing BOM ownership and cross-functional coordination to support design releases aligned to the technology roadmap
What We’re Looking For
- Degree (or equivalent) in Engineering or Manufacturing discipline
- Proven experience leading cross-functional engineering or technical projects from inception to completion
- Strong background in project delivery within engineering, manufacturing, construction, or operational environments
- Experience managing external suppliers and assessing value for money
The 'Nice-to-Haves'
- Experience presenting to executive stakeholders or customers
- Knowledge of PLM / ERP systems supporting design release and BOM processes
- Negotiation and mediation skills
- Leadership or Health
Head of Design Engineering employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits
Contact Detail:
Oxford Quantum Circuits Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the quantum computing field, especially those at OQC. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for design engineering! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your ideas on how to drive innovation in quantum computing. Let them see your enthusiasm and vision!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into OQC's projects and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission of building the future of quantum computing.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Design Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Innovation: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for bold innovation shine through. We want to see how your vision aligns with our mission of turning quantum computing from a dream into reality. Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation in your past roles!
Highlight Your Leadership Experience: As the Head of Design Engineering, you'll be leading a high-performing team. Make sure to showcase your leadership skills in your application. Talk about your experience managing teams, driving projects, and how you’ve fostered collaboration across different functions.
Be Clear About Your Technical Expertise: We’re looking for someone with a strong background in engineering and project delivery. In your application, clearly outline your technical skills and experiences that relate to design, analysis, and manufacturing processes. Don’t forget to mention any relevant tools or systems you’ve worked with!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our innovative team at OQC!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quantum computing and the specific technologies OQC is working with. Familiarise yourself with recent advancements in the field, as well as any challenges they might be facing. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also genuinely invested in their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Design Engineering, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams in the past, focusing on your approach to fostering collaboration and driving design excellence. Be ready to discuss how you handle conflicts and motivate your team.
✨Be Process-Oriented
OQC is looking for someone who can define and implement design release processes. Come prepared with ideas on how you would approach this task. Think about tools and methodologies you've used before, and be ready to explain how they could be adapted to fit the unique needs of quantum computing projects.
✨Prepare for Real-Time Problem Solving
Expect to be asked about how you would identify and mitigate project risks. Think of specific scenarios from your past experiences where you had to provide actionable recommendations to keep projects on track. This will highlight your critical thinking skills and your ability to maintain momentum in challenging situations.