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 innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience while completing your degree-level qualification.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression into various engineering roles.
- Why this job: Be part of a revolutionary team shaping the future of computation.
- Qualifications: Interest in engineering and STEM subjects; CAD experience is a plus.
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.
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.
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/
Engineering Design Apprentice in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits
At OQC, we are not just imagining the future; we are actively creating it. As an Engineering Design Apprentice, you will be part of a dynamic team that fosters bold innovation and hands-on learning in the cutting-edge field of quantum computing. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, our apprenticeship programme offers invaluable exposure to the engineering lifecycle, collaborative work culture, and opportunities for career advancement, all within a supportive environment that encourages curiosity and creativity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Design Apprentice in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at OQC on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for engineering! When you get the chance, share your hands-on projects or any CAD work you've done. We love seeing that enthusiasm and creativity in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of product lifecycle management and design processes. We want to see that you're not just interested but also informed about what we do at OQC.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our innovative team at OQC.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Design Apprentice in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine interest in engineering and design! Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your curiosity and enthusiasm for the field. This is your chance to stand out!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the role of Engineering Design Apprentice. Use keywords from the job description and relate your skills and experiences directly to what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that are easy to read. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at OQC.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Make sure you brush up on your engineering fundamentals, especially related to design and manufacturing processes. Be ready to discuss how concepts like Bills of Materials (BOMs) and product lifecycle management work, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Show Off Your CAD Skills
If you've had any experience with CAD tools like SOLIDWORKS, be prepared to talk about it! Bring examples of your work or projects where you've used CAD, and explain how you approached the design process. This will show your hands-on experience and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the technologies they use. This shows your curiosity and eagerness to learn, which is exactly what they’re looking for in an apprentice.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, highlight any past experiences where you collaborated on projects. Share specific examples that showcase your ability to communicate effectively and work well in a team environment.
