(Mid) Design & Development Engineer (Prototype to Product)

Quell; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Quell is a high-growth British defence and security AI technology start-up developing solutions to counter drone, vehicle, and human threats across the military, civilian and critical national infrastructure sectors. Based near Cambridge, we are seeking exceptional (Mid) Design & Development Engineers to take innovative concepts from early prototype through to refined, manufacturable products.

This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role for an engineer who enjoys building, experimenting,

Qualifications

• Hands-on engineering skills and passion for building.
• Solid CAD proficiency.
• Experience with additive manufacturing.
• Proactive, self-driven mindset and good teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, prototype, and develop new products
• Using CAD software to produce detailed designs, refine concepts, and support prototyping
• Building, testing, and iterating physical prototypes to improve performance and reliability
• Solving complex engineering challenges with practical, innovative solutions
• Improving product durability, efficiency, manufacturability, and overall design
• Working hands-on within workshop and R&D facilities to accelerate product development

Skills

Hands-on engineering

Additive manufacturing experience

Teamwork & communication

Proactive, self-driven

Willingness to travel on short notice

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Quell is a high-growth British defence and security AI technology start-up developing solutions to counter drone, vehicle, and human threats across the military, civilian and critical national infrastructure sectors.

Based near Cambridge, we are seeking exceptional (Mid) Design & Development Engineers to take innovative concepts from early prototype through to refined, manufacturable products.

This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role for an engineer who enjoys building, experimenting, problem-solving, and iterating rapidly in a workshop and R&D environment. The role would suit candidates with some real world experience looking to move to a faster paced company.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, prototype, and develop new products
• Using CAD software to produce detailed designs, refine concepts, and support prototyping
• Building, testing, and iterating physical prototypes to improve performance and reliability
• Solving complex engineering challenges with practical, innovative solutions
• Improving product durability, efficiency, manufacturability, and overall design
• Working hands-on within workshop and R&D facilities to accelerate product development

Requirements

• Hands-on engineering skills and passion for building and problem-solving
• Proficiency in CAD software
• Additive manufacturing experience.
• Solid understanding of engineering principles and ability to learn new tools and systems quickly
• Proactive, self-driven mindset with strong teamwork and communication skills
• Must be able to work onsite in workshop/R&D facilities five days a week
• Must be able to travel at short notice if required

Details

• Location: North Uttlesford / Greater Cambridge area, on-site
• Five days a week on‑site (ie: this is not a hybrid role)
• Full UK driving licence required. If this isn't held, candidates will need to commit to obtaining within 6 months of their start date
• Applicants must be fully eligible to work in the UK without restriction, time limit, or the need for current or future sponsorship.