At a Glance
- Tasks: Support engineering design and manufacturing processes for cutting-edge quantum computing systems.
- Company: Join OQC, a pioneer in quantum technology with a culture of bold innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience while completing your degree-level qualification in a dynamic 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 computing 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/
Engineering Design Apprentice — CAD & Design Release in Reading employer: Oxford Quantum Circuits
At OQC, we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of quantum computing innovation, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters creativity and growth. As an Engineering Design Apprentice, you'll not only gain hands-on experience in engineering design and manufacturing but also benefit from our commitment to employee development through structured training with University Centre Newbury. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team where your contributions will help shape the future of technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Design Apprentice — CAD & Design Release in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research OQC's projects, values, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their innovative journey.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus when applying for roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! Since this role involves practical skills, brush up on your CAD knowledge and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities. Practice makes perfect, so don’t shy away from mock scenarios.
✨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 proactive and keen to join the OQC team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Design Apprentice — CAD & Design Release 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 enthusiasm for the field. This is your chance to stand out!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your exposure to CAD tools and any STEM-related studies you've undertaken. We want to know 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 potential.
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Quantum Circuits
✨Know Your CAD Basics
Make sure you brush up on your CAD skills, especially if you've had some exposure to SOLIDWORKS. Be ready to discuss any projects you've worked on, even if they were just school assignments or personal hobbies. Showing enthusiasm for design and a willingness to learn will definitely impress the interviewers.
✨Understand the Engineering Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the engineering lifecycle and how products move from concept to manufacture. You might be asked about this during the interview, so having a solid grasp of terms like 'Bills of Materials' and 'design release processes' will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Curiosity
OQC values curiosity, so don’t hesitate to ask questions during your interview. Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the company’s projects or the apprenticeship itself. This shows that you’re proactive and eager to learn, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated on projects in the past. Whether it was in school, clubs, or personal projects, demonstrating your ability to work well with others will show that you can thrive in OQC's team-oriented environment.
