Mechatronics Engineer

Helicon Quantum Systems Ltd.; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Helicon Quantum Systems Ltd is seeking a Mechatronics Engineer in the Oxford area to lead mechanical design, prototyping and hardware integration of complex instrumentation. The role combines precision mechanical engineering, optomechanics and electronics integration, with hands-on prototype development aimed at reliable assemblies.

We value practical engineers who can translate concepts into well‑designed hardware, collaborate with optical and systems teams, and work across multidisciplinary

Qualifications

• Three or more years of relevant professional or research experience.
• Hands-on hardware development experience.
• Strong practical skills in developing complex mechanical or mechatronic systems.
• Experience integrating mechanical components with electronics, sensors, actuators or optical equipment.
• Ability to translate engineering requirements into practical designs and functioning prototypes.
• Good technical judgement, attention to detail and a systematic approach to problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical and optomechanical assemblies.
• Create 3D CAD models, engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Select components, materials and manufacturing methods suitable for prototype development.
• Design and integrate mechanical, electronic and electromechanical subsystems.
• Develop practical solutions for alignment, thermal management, mechanical stability and maintainability.
• Build, assemble, commission and troubleshoot experimental hardware and prototypes.
• Work with external suppliers and manufacturers on component fabrication and procurement.
• Collaborate with optical and systems engineers on multidisciplinary hardware integration.
• Identify engineering limitations and implement improvements through testing and iterative development.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Mechatronics

3D CAD

Hands-on hardware

Design for assembly

Electromechanical

Prototyping

Materials tolerances

Problem-solving

Independent work

Tools

CNC machining

Additive manufacturing

Rapid prototyping

Job description

We are looking for a Mechatronics Engineer to take responsibility for the mechanical design, prototyping and hardware integration of complex instrumentation.

The position combines precision mechanical engineering, optomechanics, electronics integration and hands-on prototype development.

We are looking for a practical engineer who enjoys building things, understands how different hardware subsystems interact and can turn engineering concepts into well-designed, functioning assemblies.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical and optomechanical assemblies.
• Create 3D CAD models, engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Select components, materials and manufacturing methods suitable for prototype development.
• Design and integrate mechanical, electronic and electromechanical subsystems.
• Develop practical solutions for alignment, thermal management, mechanical stability and maintainability.
• Build, assemble, commission and troubleshoot experimental hardware and prototypes.
• Work with external suppliers and manufacturers on component fabrication and procurement.
• Collaborate with optical and systems engineers on multidisciplinary hardware integration.
• Identify engineering limitations and implement improvements through testing and iterative development.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for an engineer with strong practical skills and experience developing complex mechanical or mechatronic systems.

• Strong foundation in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, precision engineering or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and mechanical design.
• Hands‑on experience designing, building, assembling and troubleshooting hardware.
• Understanding of mechanical tolerances, materials, manufacturing processes and design for assembly.
• Experience integrating mechanical components with electronics, sensors, actuators or optical equipment.
• Ability to translate engineering requirements into practical designs and functioning prototypes.
• Good technical judgement, attention to detail and a systematic approach to problem‑solving.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to multidisciplinary engineering projects.

Candidates will typically have three or more years of relevant professional or research experience.

Equivalent experience gained through substantial hands‑on hardware development is equally relevant.

We particularly value engineers who are comfortable working beyond their immediate specialisation and enjoy solving unfamiliar technical problems.

Additional Experience

• Precision optomechanics and instrumentation.
• Optical mounting, alignment and mechanical integration.
• Electronics integration, wiring and control hardware.
• Sensors, actuators and motion‑control systems.
• Thermal management and vibration‑sensitive assemblies.
• CNC machining, additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping.
• Design for manufacture and assembly.
• Prototype commissioning, testing and hardware validation.
• Development of complex experimental or industrial equipment.

Prior experience with quantum technologies or THz imaging is not required. Practical engineering ability, versatility and the capacity to develop reliable hardware are more important than familiarity with the specific underlying technology.

• Employment: Permanent, full‑time.
• Working hours: 40 hours per week.
• Annual leave: 28 days plus England and Wales bank holidays.
• Pension: Employer contribution of 5% of gross annual salary.
• Location: Oxford area, UK.
• Working arrangements: Hybrid working is possible where compatible with project requirements. Regular on‑site work will be necessary for hardware development, assembly, testing and integration.
• Expected start date: January 2027.

Application deadline Thursday 12 November 2026

Expected interviews Week commencing 16 November 2026

Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance are not available.