At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop advanced optical systems for monitoring and tracking applications.
- Company: Quell, a high-growth British defence and security AI tech start-up.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: On-site role in Cambridge with a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and work on cutting-edge technology that makes a real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Optical Engineering or related field; experience in optical system design preferred.
The predicted salary is between 48231 - 58949 £ per year.
About the Company
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. Based near Cambridge, we are seeking exceptional Experimental Physicists to design and develop advanced optical systems used in monitoring, tracking, and computer vision applications. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role working across the full product lifecycle—from concept and design through to prototyping, testing, and product release.
Key Responsibilities
- Designing, modelling, and validating optical systems including lenses, mirrors, mounts, and electro-optic sensors
- Developing optical solutions for high-performance monitoring, tracking, and computer vision applications (VIS, NIR, FIR)
- Using ray-tracing and simulation tools (e.g., OpticStudio or equivalent) to model and optimise optical components
- Selecting suitable materials and components for high-performance optical assemblies
- Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, technicians, and product managers
- Developing machine-vision systems to meet demanding technical and reliability requirements
- Supporting prototype builds, system integration, testing, and validation
- Managing workstreams independently and ensuring timely delivery of project milestones
Requirements
- Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Master’s/PhD preferred)
- Experience designing optical systems, particularly in electro-optics or machine vision
- Strong understanding of optical design principles including ray tracing, lens design, and simulation
- Familiarity with optical test methods and performance validation
- Knowledge of opto-mechanics, electronics, image processing, and electro-optical systems
- Proficiency with ray-tracing software (e.g., OpticStudio or similar)
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage tasks independently
- Comfortable working onsite in the Cambridge area
Desirable
- Experience working with laser systems
- Knowledge of infrared optics (NIR/FIR)
- Experience working in multidisciplinary or agile engineering environments
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.
Experimental Physicist - Infrared Detection Systems 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 Experimental Physicist - Infrared Detection Systems in Cambridge
✨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 Experimental Physicist - Infrared Detection Systems role you’re after at Quell.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
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✨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 Quell.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
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We think you need these skills to ace Experimental Physicist - Infrared Detection Systems in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Experimental Physicist - Infrared Detection Systems, 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 Quell 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 Quell 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 Quell
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Quell, 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 Quell 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.
