Engineering Technician

Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

Department: Engineering Operations

Workplace: on_site

Employment Type: full

Description

Engineering Technician

We’re building the future of quantum computing and we’re looking for an Engineering Technician to maintain and build the infrastructure and environments that house OQC’s quantum computers. You’ll be joining a collaborative, fast-paced team where your hands-on technical skills, problem-solving mindset and commitment to safety will enable our engineers to focus on what matters most: accelerating our mission.

You’ll come with experience from a technical or industrial setting, where you’ve kept mechanical assemblies running smoothly - whether that’s scientific equipment, water systems, or manifolds. You understand the importance of doing things safely and properly, and you’ve had a hand in writing processes, procedures, or risk assessments that keep people and environments protected. You’re the kind of person who keeps a space humming: labs operational, equipment well-maintained, and systems performing at their best. Your work will directly support the breakthroughs that define OQC. So we will need you to be organised, proactive, and comfortable juggling tasks across projects. You know how to coordinate with external vendors, and you don’t mind jumping on a train or plane when hands-on work with our globally deployed devices is needed.

Reporting to Chris Nicholson , Laboratory Supervisor, you will:

• Support the build, maintenance and smooth operation of our quantum computers and systems including dilution refrigerators.
• Assist with building, assembling and maintaining mechanical, electrical and electronic components 
• Help maintain safe and organised technical spaces by following Health & Safety protocols and supporting day-to-day upkeep.
• Respond to technical incidents in the lab, helping to troubleshoot issues and escalating when needed.
• Keep accurate records of incidents, maintenance activities and technical updates on agreed platforms.
• Ensure the lab is well stocked by conducting regular checks and coordinating with the Stores Controller.
• Support the setup, maintenance and improvement of equipment used across our technical workspaces.
• Monitor cryogen levels and assist with regular ordering and scheduling to keep systems running reliably.

Working with quantum computers means working at the frontier of what’s technically possible, so you’ll need a solid foundation in hands-on skills—such as electrical testing, mechanical assembly or maintaining scientific equipment—and a willingness to grow into areas like cryogenic systems, vacuum equipment and high-pressure gas handling. We’re looking for people who stay adaptable, communicate openly and enjoy creative problem-solving. A natural focus on quality, good organisational habits and confident decision-making will help you contribute effectively as our technology and team continue to scale.

The right candidate will be able to work on-site full time, is comfortable with the physical nature of the role, and holds a valid driving licence to travel between locations, ideally with experience driving a van, though this is a bonus rather than a requirement. They should also be willing to take part in an on-call rota to support operational needs. The role will also require international travel to work on deployed systems, sometimes at short notice.

Your contribution will help our teams stay focused, move quickly and continue delivering the technology shaping the future of quantum computing

🌐 Learn more about our benefits and positive work culture here: https://oqc.tech/company/careers-at-oqc/