Senior Equipment Design Engineer (Test Beds & Test Stands)

Oxford Quantum Circuits
Reading, United Kingdom
Last week
Job Type
Permanent
Work Location
Hybrid
Seniority
Senior
Posted
8 Apr 2026 (Last week)

At OQC, we aren’t just theorising about the future; we’re building it. Born from a philosophy of bold innovation, we’ve successfully transitioned quantum computing from an academic dream into a commercial reality. The most exciting thing is that we’re just getting started.

Our Equipment Design Engineers are the architects of our progress, creating the bespoke test environments and high-precision rigs that allow us to validate the future of quantum computation.

If you’re driven to push the absolute boundaries of R&D and engineer the breakthroughs that will redefine human computation, then you belong here.

The Role

To build the world’s most advanced quantum computers, we first have to build the machines that test them. We are looking for a Senior Equipment Design Engineer to own the lifecycle of our test infrastructure. You aren't just designing parts; you are providing the "final design authority" for the mission-critical test beds and stands that support our entire development roadmap.

Your challenge is one of synthesis: taking complex requirements from our Science and Innovation teams and translating them into robust, physical reality. You are being hired to ensure that our R&D cycles are fast, accurate, and supported by world-class engineering equipment designed specifically for the unique demands of quantum hardware.

What You’ll Be Working On

  • Specify: Assess current equipment capabilities and compile the definitive suite of required test stands and beds for the OQC roadmap.
  • Design: Create full machine schematics and detailed equipment designs using 3D CAD, from initial concept to final detail.
  • Lead: Manage the end-to-end procurement, manufacture, and assembly of test rigs, ensuring they meet rigorous internal specifications.
  • Commission: Partner with R&D teams to test and validate new equipment, ensuring absolute compliance with design specifications.
  • Iterate: Maintain and evolve the existing fleet, implementing iterative design improvements to keep pace with our rapid innovation cycles.
  • Manage: Take full Project Management responsibility—owning the scope, timeline, and budget for our test equipment infrastructure.

What We’re Looking For

We value strong fundamentals, technical curiosity, and a passion for challenging problems.

Core Experience:

  • Machine Design: Extensive experience in the end-to-end design and manufacture of complex machines or industrial equipment.
  • CAD Mastery: Expert-level skills in 3D CAD, preferably SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
  • Engineering Principles: A rock-solid grasp of fundamental engineering principles across mechanical and electrical disciplines.
  • Project Leadership: Proven ability to manage technical projects, covering scope, time, and budget planning.
  • Collaboration: A track record of synthesizing information from multiple engineering disciplines into a cohesive design.
  • Academic Foundation: A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, or a similar technical field.

The "Nice to Haves":

  • Experience with the design or use of dilution refrigerators and cryogenic systems.
  • Hands-on experience with the mechanical installation of test rigs or fixtures.
  • Background in supplier management and technical procurement.

Why Join OQC?

You will join a world-class team at the forefront of the next computational era. We offer a culture of bold innovation, the chance to work with unique lab infrastructure, and the opportunity to see your work redefine the limits of computation.

Learn more about our benefits and positive work culture here:

https://oqc.tech/company/careers-at-oqc/

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