At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop cutting-edge detector technology for global research.
- Company: Quantum Detectors, a high-tech spinout at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, generous holiday, and enhanced pension contributions.
- Other info: Opportunities for travel and continuous learning in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in materials science and collaborate with experts in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronic Engineering or related field, plus 2-3 years of experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
- Systems Engineer
- Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire | £40,000–£50,000
Quantum Detectors is a high-tech spinout from STFC and Diamond Light Source based at the world class Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
We develop cutting edge detector technology used in X-ray and Electron Microscopy labs globally, helping scientists push the boundaries of materials science, biology, and physics.
We are looking for a practical, collaborative Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team.
This is a hands-on role focused on the hardware and electronics that drive our world-leading detector systems.
You will work across our entire product portfolio to ensure our hardware and software integrate seamlessly to meet the demands of global research facilities.
What You’ll Do
As a core member of our multidisciplinary engineering team, you will bridge the gap between high-performance electronics and real-world scientific application.
Key Responsibilities
- System Integration: Support the development, validation, and debugging of detector systems across all product lines.
- Hardware Focus: Take ownership of hardware-related tasks: including electronics and full system testing and debugging.
- Cross-Discipline Collaboration: Work closely with software engineers, scientists, mechanical designers and quality to ensure smooth system functioning.
- Technical Documentation: Produce clear technical specifications, procedures, and test reports to support the handover of new technologies to production.
- Continuous Improvement: Contribute to value engineering of existing products and the implementation of our R&D technology roadmap.
- Support: As a member of a vibrant, fast-growing company, you will adapt to various technical challenges as business needs evolve.
What You Bring
We are looking for an engineer with a solid electronics background and 2 to 3 years of workplace experience after their degree.
You should be someone who enjoys unpicking technical problems and seeing how all the pieces of a system fit together.
Essential
- Degree: In Electronic Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
- Experience: 2 to 3 years of workplace experience in an engineering environment (post-graduation).
- Electronics Background: Proven experience in the design, validation, or debugging of electronic equipment.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, including coordination of external partners.
- Growth Mindset: Self-motivated with high attention to detail and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
Desirable
- Familiarity with Linux and Windows operating systems.
- Familiarity with Python or C++.
- Ability to make modifications and updates to existing electronic designs.
- Understanding of CAD and technical drawings.
- Interest in particle detection, X-rays, or electron microscopy.
Why Join Quantum Detectors?
This is a fast-growing business where every team member contributes directly to products that ship to leading laboratories worldwide.
You will be part of a supportive, expert group that thrives on shared curiosity and continuous learning.
We offer
- Competitive Salary: £40k to £50k (DOE).
- Work-Life Balance: 35-hour working week with flexible hours and 30 days holiday.
- Generous Benefits: Enhanced pension contribution, laptop, and phone.
- World-Class Location: Access to excellent facilities at Harwell Campus: including cafes, sports clubs, and social events.
- Travel Opportunities: Occasional UK and international travel to support customer installations or attend conferences.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why this role appeals to you.
No agents, please.
Systems Engineer in Oxford employer: Quantum Detectors
Quantum Detectors is an exceptional employer located at the prestigious Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for continuous learning and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, ensuring that every engineer plays a vital role in advancing cutting-edge technology. Our commitment to work-life balance, competitive salaries, and generous benefits makes us an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the high-tech sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Engineer in Oxford
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Systems Engineer role you’re after at Quantum Detectors.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Quantum Detectors a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Quantum Detectors.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Systems Engineer at Quantum Detectors, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Engineer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Systems Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Quantum Detectors a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Quantum Detectors specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Quantum Detectors
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Quantum Detectors, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Quantum Detectors want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
