At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop high-speed electronics for groundbreaking quantum communication systems.
- 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 communication.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronic Engineering or related field with FPGA experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us
Xen Quantum is building next‑generation quantum communication systems based on silicon photonics and a 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.
Position Overview
We're looking for an Electronics Engineer to join as one of our first technical hires to take part in the development of the electronics that underpins our quantum communication systems. This hands‑on role focuses on the design and development of high‑speed, FPGA‑based data acquisition and control electronics, enabling reliable operation of our hardware. You will play a key role in bringing critical electronics capabilities in‑house and establishing long‑term internal expertise. You will work closely with physicists, system engineers, and the founders, with real responsibility and the opportunity to help to shape both the technical architecture and the evolution of the role as the company grows.
What You'll Do
- Design, develop, and test high‑speed, FPGA‑based data acquisition and control systems for quantum communication prototypes
- Own the electronics subsystem, from requirements definition and architecture through to implementation and validation
- Develop, verify, and debug mixed‑signal electronics (digital and analogue) interfacing with photonic and quantum hardware
- Run simulations, perform board bring‑up, debug hardware and firmware issues, and iterate rapidly on designs
- Stream and process high‑rate data reliably to host systems, working across firmware, embedded software, and system integration
- Document designs and results, and feed learnings back into system‑level and product decisions
- Work closely with the wider team to transition from commercial off‑the‑shelf electronics to custom in‑house designs
What We're Looking For
Education & Experience
- BSc, MSc, or equivalent experience in Electronic Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
- Minimum of 2 years' hands‑on experience in FPGA development and/or electronic system design. Candidates with a BSc qualification are expected to demonstrate additional experience (typically 4+ years).
- Proven ability to take ownership of technical work and see it through from concept to working hardware
Technical Skills
- Solid experience with FPGA design and development (architecture, simulation, implementation, debugging)
- Experience with high‑speed data acquisition or digital signal processing is highly valued
- Embedded programming experience in C
- Python experience for testing, data analysis, and visualisation
- Comfortable working with Linux‑based development environments
- Familiarity with version control (Git)
- 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 working close to hardware interfaces (ADCs, DACs, clocks, high‑speed links)
- PCB design experience (schematic capture, layout, bring‑up)
- Experience with mixed‑signal or analogue electronics
- Exposure to quantum technologies, photonics, or scientific instrumentation
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
- Comfortable operating in an early‑stage startup with evolving requirements
- Hands‑on, practical, and not afraid to debug real hardware
- Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
- Clear communicator, able to document work and collaborate across disciplines
- Motivated by building things that actually get deployed
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
Electronics Engineer in Cambridge employer: Xen Quantum
Xen Quantum is an exceptional employer for Electronics Engineers, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of quantum communication technology in the vibrant city of Cambridge. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will be one of the first technical hires, allowing you to shape the future of the company while enjoying a collaborative work culture and benefits such as enhanced annual leave and company share options. Join us to make a meaningful impact in an innovative environment that values hands-on experience and fosters professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electronics Engineer 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 Electronics Engineer role you’re after at Xen Quantum.
✨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 Xen Quantum 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 Xen Quantum.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Electronics Engineer at Xen Quantum, 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 Electronics Engineer in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Electronics 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 Xen Quantum 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 Xen Quantum 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 Xen Quantum
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Xen Quantum, 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 Xen Quantum 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.
