At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop innovative products from prototype to production in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a high-growth British defence AI start-up near Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for rapid career growth.
- Other info: Work on-site five days a week in a collaborative workshop and R&D setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by solving complex engineering challenges with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Strong engineering skills, CAD proficiency, and experience in product development required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ 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. Based near Cambridge, we are seeking an exceptional Senior Design & Development Engineer to take innovative concepts from early prototype through to refined, manufacturable products. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role for a dynamic engineer who enjoys building, experimenting, problem-solving, and iterating rapidly in a workshop and R&D environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, prototype, and develop new products
- Using CAD software to produce detailed designs, refine concepts, and support prototyping
- Building, testing, and iterating physical prototypes to improve performance and reliability
- Solving complex engineering challenges with practical, innovative solutions
- Improving product durability, efficiency, manufacturability, and overall design
- Working hands-on within workshop and R&D facilities to accelerate product development
Requirements
- Strong hands-on engineering skills and passion for building and problem-solving
- Proficient in CAD software
- Proficient in PCB electronics
- Thorough additive manufacturing experience
- Knowledge of CAD/PDM methodologies
- Solid understanding of engineering principles and ability to learn new tools and systems quickly
- Experience taking products from concept through prototype to production
- Proactive, self-driven mindset with strong teamwork and communication skills
- Must be able to work on-site in workshop/R&D facilities five days a week
- Must be able to travel at short notice if required
Details
- Location: North Uttlesford / Greater Cambridge area, on-site
- Five days a week on-site (ie: this is not a hybrid role)
- Applicants must be fully eligible to work in the UK without restriction, time limit, or the need for current or future sponsorship.
Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product) 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 Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product) 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 Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product) role you’re after at Quell.
✨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 Quell 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 Quell.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product) at Quell, 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 Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Senior Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product), 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.
