At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to create innovative prototypes and operate advanced 3D printing technology.
- Company: Exciting British defence and security AI start-up focused on cutting-edge solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work on-site in a collaborative team, with excellent career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence tech while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with 3D printing and basic CAD skills; passion for hands-on fabrication.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Quell is a high-growth British defence and security AI technology start-up developing solutions to counter drone, vehicle, and human threats across the military, civilian and critical national infrastructure sectors.
We are currently seeking
Additive Manufacturing & Prototyping Engineers to support rapid prototyping, fabrication, and small-batch production across our engineering and R&D teams.
This role is open to both junior and senior candidates, with responsibilities adjusted to match experience.
You will operate advanced additive manufacturing equipment, support mechanical and hands-on prototyping, and help develop components used in cutting-edge sensing, robotics, and AI-enabled systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
- Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting 3D printers (FDM, SLA, SLS)
- Preparing, slicing, and optimising print files for accuracy, strength, and speed
- Managing setup, calibration, material changes, and print monitoring
- Performing post-processing tasks (support removal, curing, sanding, surface finishing)
- Maintaining AM logs, material inventory, and build documentation
- Prototyping & Fabrication
- Supporting hands-on prototyping for mechanical, electronic, and optical assemblies
- Fabricating prototype components using workshop tools (e. g., drills, saws, sanders, small mills, hand tools)
- Assisting with machining simple parts or fixtures (CNC experience is a plus)
- Producing jigs, fixtures, brackets, enclosures, and test hardware for engineering teams
- Assembling prototype systems and supporting integration with electronics or mechanical housings
- Building and maintaining test rigs used in R&D
- Design Support & CAD
- Working with engineers to refine designs for manufacturability (DFAM)
- Preparing and orienting CAD models for additive manufacturing
- Suggesting improvements for strength, tolerances, print times, or assembly considerations
- Quality, Testing & Workflow Development
- Inspecting printed and fabricated parts for accuracy, defects, and performance
- Keeping the workshop and print lab organised, safe, and well maintained
- Helping develop improved workflows for print quality, repeatability, and efficiency
- Supporting experimental material trials or advanced AM processes (for senior candidates)
- Senior-Level Additions (where applicable)
- Leading AM strategy, including printer selection, material choices, and process improvements
- Training junior team members and establishing best-practice standards
- Supporting experimental research in lattice structures, high-performance materials, or hybrid AM/CNC workflows
Requirements
- Experience using 3D printers (academic, hobbyist, or professional)
- Basic CAD skills for preparing/modifying print files
- Strong hands-on workshop or fabrication experience
- Familiarity with slicing software (Cura, Prusa Slicer, Pre Form, etc.)
- Good understanding of mechanical principles and tolerances
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple jobs in parallel
- High attention to detail and quality
- Strong organisation and documentation habits
- Professional experience in additive manufacturing, fabrication, prototyping, or mechanical engineering
- Knowledge of advanced materials (nylon composites, carbon fibre, engineering resins)
- Ability to operate or support CNC machining or laser cutting
- Experience building test jigs and fixtures
- Understanding of DFAM principles
- Experience repairing or upgrading 3D printers
- Familiarity with electronics assembly or wiring
- Background in robotics or hardware development
This role is suitable for both junior technicians with strong potential and experienced specialists looking to shape prototyping capability in a deep-tech environment.
Details
Location
- North Uttlesford / Greater Cambridge area, on-site
- Five days a week on-site (ie: this is not a hybrid role)
- Full UK driving licence required. If this isn't held, candidates will need to commit to obtaining within 6 months of their start date
- Applicants must be fully eligible to work in the UK without restriction, time limit, or the need for current or future sponsorship.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Additive Manufactuing & Prototyping Engineer in Cambridge employer: Quell
Quell is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the cutting edge of defence and security AI technology. Located near Cambridge, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that values legal expertise as a strategic partner, fostering professional growth and providing opportunities to influence key business decisions. With a focus on innovation and compliance in a rapidly evolving industry, Quell empowers its team members to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive atmosphere that encourages agility and emotional intelligence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Additive Manufactuing & Prototyping Engineer in Cambridge
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Leverage the Power of Internships
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Quell, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Additive Manufactuing & Prototyping Engineer in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Quell specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Quell
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Quell, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Quell value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
