Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manufacture and test cutting-edge optical components in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join QinetiQ, a leader in defence technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous holidays, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes the future with groundbreaking technology.
- Qualifications: A Levels or equivalent; experience in optical manufacturing is a plus.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and community involvement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
Are you ready to be part of the future? At QinetiQ, we’re not just imagining tomorrow we are creating it. From cutting‑edge defence technology to ground‑breaking innovations our mission is to empower and protect lives. Join us as an Optical Build Technician at our Farnborough or Malvern site, where you will have the opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology in partnership with some of the most brilliant minds.
The Role
QinetiQ is currently looking for an experienced Optical Build Technician to help support and develop its manufacturing capabilities. This position will involve the manufacture, assembly, and testing of various optical focused components, using established and trial/NPI production processes. There will also be a need to perform maintenance on production equipment, gather and analyse production data, and ensure that production deadlines are met.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Manufacture optical products to high specification and conduct complex technical or engineering tasks
- Operate shop floor activities in a safe and approved manner, in line with company HSE standards
- Follow production schedules and quality standards to meet required targets and document production data to maintain accurate records for tracking and reporting purposes
- Operate and monitor production machinery to ensure smooth manufacturing operations and perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot minor issues with machines
- Participate in training programs to learn new production techniques and improve performance
- Conduct regular checks and preventive maintenance on equipment to ensure reliability and report significant machinery issues or failures to supervisors to prevent downtime
Essential experience of the Optical Build Technician:
- Capable of manufacturing assemblies to specification via drawings and electronic production systems without direct supervision
- Previous experience and strong understanding of optical or laser manufacturing
- Good understanding of clean‑room health & safety regulations and quality standards
- Knowledge of Lean and 6‑sigma manufacturing principles and familiarity with quality control processes and safety regulations in manufacturing as well as familiarity with ISO9001
- Experience using and maintaining automated splice machines (Fujikura/Sumitomo, etc.)
- Knowledge of optical measurements using high‑resolution power meters, cut‑back methods and fiber jacket removal, fiber stripping and best practice
Essential qualifications for the Optical Build Technician:
- A Levels, BTEC, NVQ or equivalent; vocational or technical training is a plus
- Certification in manufacturing or safety training (e.g., OSHA, IPC, etc.) or equivalent level and depth of experience and training
This role is 37 hours per week based at one of our Farnborough or Malvern sites.
Why Join QinetiQ?
As we continue to grow into new markets around the world, there’s never been a more exciting time to join QinetiQ. The formula for success is our appetite for innovation and having the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges. As a QinetiQ employee, you’ll experience a unique working environment where teams from different backgrounds, disciplines and experiences enjoy collaborating widely and openly as we undertake this exciting and rewarding journey. Through effective teamwork and pulling together, you’ll get to experience what happens when we all share different perspectives, blend disciplines, and link technologies; constantly discovering new ways of solving complex problems in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can be authentic, feel valued and realise your full potential.
Visit our website to read more about our diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
Generous holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days
Options to join Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance
Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets and much more
We are proud to support the Armed Forces community by honouring the Armed Forces Covenant and maintaining our Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
Volunteering opportunities – helping charities and the local community
Our Recruitment Process
We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments. Many roles in QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting being completed; applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment. A number of roles are also subject to additional restrictions, which means factors such as nationality or previous nationalities may affect the roles that you can be employed in. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.
Optical Build Technician in Farnborough employer: QINETIQ LIMITED
Contact Detail:
QINETIQ LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Build Technician in Farnborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at QinetiQ on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since you'll be working with optical components, make sure you can talk confidently about your experience and how it relates to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for innovation! During interviews, share examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. QinetiQ loves candidates who think outside the box and are eager to learn.
✨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, you’ll find all the latest job openings there.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Build Technician in Farnborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Optical Build Technician role. Highlight your relevant experience in optical or laser manufacturing, and don’t forget to mention any specific skills that match the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working at QinetiQ and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the team. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves complex technical tasks, be sure to showcase your technical skills and experience with production machinery. Mention any certifications or training you've completed that are relevant to the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us, so we can review it promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at QINETIQ LIMITED
✨Know Your Optical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of optical and laser manufacturing processes. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used, like high-resolution power meters or automated splice machines. Showing that you understand the technical aspects will impress the interviewers.
✨Safety First!
Familiarise yourself with clean-room health and safety regulations, as well as quality standards. Be prepared to talk about how you’ve adhered to these in past roles. This shows that you take safety seriously and can operate within the required guidelines.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples where you've troubleshot machinery issues or improved production processes. QinetiQ values innovation, so showcasing your ability to solve complex problems will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
QinetiQ appreciates candidates who are eager to grow. Mention any training programs you've participated in or new techniques you've learned recently. This demonstrates your commitment to personal development and aligns with their culture of continuous improvement.
