At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and integrate cutting-edge quantum communication systems with a focus on optical subsystems.
- Company: Join Xen Quantum, a pioneering tech start-up in quantum communication.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company shares, enhanced leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Exciting early-stage role with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of quantum technology and shape the future of secure communication.
- Qualifications: MSc or PhD in Physics or Engineering with hands-on lab experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Xen Quantum is building next-generation quantum communication systems based on silicon photonics and patented architecture, enabling practical and scalable quantum key distribution (QKD). Our technology simplifies implementation and lays the foundation for high-volume manufacturing and real-world deployment.
We're looking for a Quantum Communication System Developer to join as one of our first technical hires and play a defining role in shaping both our technology and the engineering culture. This is a hands‑on role at the intersection of quantum optics, photonics, cryptography and system engineering – spanning laboratory development, system integration, and early field deployment with customers.
What You'll Do
- Develop, integrate, and characterize quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, with a focus on optical subsystems and protocol execution
- Design, test, and evaluate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication applications
- Build and characterize optical and electro‑optical subsystems and prototypes
- Analyze experimental data and feed results back into system and product design
- Design and execute experiments, pilot trials, and early customer deployments
- Work closely with founders and collaborators to develop deployable systems
What We're Looking For
Education & Experience
- MSc or PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field
- Demonstrated excellence in experimental quantum optics and optical communications
- At least 3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in relevant topics
- Proven ability to design, build, and characterize optical systems independently
Technical Skills
- Hands‑on experience with optical system construction and characterisation
- Fibre‑optic systems experience (lasers, modulators, detectors, fibre components)
- Electro‑optical lab experience, including familiarity with RF signals and measurements
- Experience building, characterising, and controlling QKD systems
- Scientific programming experience (Python and relevant libraries; C/C++ highly valued)
- Experience with Linux‑based systems and version control (git)
- Statistical data analysis and visualisation
- Experience with numerical modelling and simulations
- Strong project management and self‑organisation skills, independently planning and executing work while reliably meeting timelines, technical milestones, and other constraints
Nice to Have
- Experience with photonic integrated circuit design and characterisation
- Experience with field trials or deployed optical systems
- Exposure to customer‑facing technical work
This is a wish list, not a requirements list – if you have a technical background, are excited about what we’re building and want to be part of an early‑stage start‑up, we want to hear from you.
How You Work
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Creative and flexible problem‑solver, able to work around real-world constraints
- Comfortable operating independently in an early‑stage environment
- Willing to take ownership of the responsibilities associated with the role, and help define the technology development
Compensation & Benefits
- £40,000 – £60,000 pa, depending on experience
- Company shares options plan
- Enhanced annual leave (25 days + bank holidays)
- Primarily in‑person working (in Cambridge, UK), with flexible options where possible
- Early‑hire role with genuine scope to grow with – and help shape – the business
Quantum Communication System Developer in Cambridge employer: Xen Quantum Ltd
Xen Quantum is an exceptional employer for those passionate about pioneering quantum communication technology. Located in the vibrant city of Cambridge, we offer a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and creativity, alongside generous benefits such as enhanced annual leave and company share options. As one of our first technical hires, you will have unique opportunities for personal and professional growth, playing a crucial role in shaping both our technology and engineering culture in an early-stage start-up environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quantum Communication System Developer in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the quantum communication field, attend relevant meetups or conferences, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got hands-on experience with optical systems or QKD, consider creating a portfolio or a project showcase. We love seeing practical applications of your knowledge, so make sure to highlight your best work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your experience and tackling technical questions.
✨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, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who are excited about shaping the future of quantum communication.
We think you need these skills to ace Quantum Communication System Developer in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for quantum communication shine through! We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the technology and the role. Share why you’re drawn to this field and how you envision contributing to our mission.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in quantum optics, photonics, and system engineering. We love seeing specific projects or achievements that align with what we do at Xen Quantum. Don’t just list your skills; show us how you've applied them!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Quantum Communication System Developer role. Be sure to mention any hands-on experience you have and how it relates to our work. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Xen Quantum!
How to prepare for a job interview at Xen Quantum Ltd
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quantum optics and photonics. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with QKD systems and optical subsystems. They’ll want to see that you can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk when it comes to practical applications.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled real-world challenges in your previous roles. Think about specific projects where you had to be creative and flexible. This role is all about overcoming constraints, so demonstrating your problem-solving prowess will definitely impress them.
✨Get Familiar with Their Tech Stack
Since they value scientific programming, make sure you’re comfortable discussing Python and any relevant libraries. If you have experience with C/C++ or Linux-based systems, be ready to highlight that too. Showing that you can hit the ground running with their tech will set you apart.
✨Be Ready for Collaboration
This position involves working closely with founders and collaborators, so emphasise your communication and teamwork skills. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated in the past, especially in a lab setting. They’ll want to know you can contribute to their engineering culture right from the start.
