Quantum Lab Technician: Build, Align & Calibrate Optics

Universal Quantum Ltd.; Haywards Heath; On-site; Full time

Job description

At Universal Quantum we are building the next generation of quantum computers — machines capable of solving problems once thought impossible. Our technology has the potential to transform industries from healthcare to aerospace, materials science, and beyond. We are seeking to hire a Lab Technician to support the assembly, integration, testing, calibration, and maintenance of the quantum computing machines, including laser and optical systems. Passionate about helping create technologies which can change the world? We may be the right place for you, so get in touch!

What You’ll Accomplish

• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team of quantum, optical, software, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
• Support and perform assembly, integration, calibration, and maintenance of the quantum machines including laser and optical systems.
• Perform functional tests and calibrations.
• Support test setups and collect data (e.g., organising temporary test spaces, booking equipment, procuring required materials, and monitoring tests).
• Maintain and organize the laboratory including stocking essential supplies and ensuring a clean working environment.

The 3 Most Critical Attributes We’ll Use to Compare Candidates

• Strong hands‑on skills in assembly, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Very good technical understanding of laser and optical systems.
• Strong communication skills, able to adapt well to teamwork, and keen to support physicists and engineers in lab activities.

Must‑have Skills

• At least 2 years of experience in engineering/research labs or high‑tech R&D environments.
• Experience in assembling and maintaining complex technological systems (electronic, optical, and mechanical).
• Ability to write Python code to automate routine tasks, process data, and plot results.
• Independent work in troubleshooting and problem‑solving.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; a team‑oriented mindset.
• Flexibility and willingness to familiarize yourself with new areas of responsibility.

Nice‑to‑have Skills

• Degree or completed coursework in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, Electrical / Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Engineering Physics, or a related discipline.
• Experience in R&D of optical, electrical/electronic or mechanical systems.
• Experience working with lasers, optical components, and alignment systems for high‑precision or experimental setups, including troubleshooting laser systems, beam alignment, and performing optical measurements.
• Proficiency in reading mechanical drawings and optical design/layout documents, and interpreting design specifications.
• Ability to design mechanical components using basic CAD tools.
• Experience with Ultra‑High‑Vacuum systems.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations, including risk assessments and emergency preparedness.

Competitive salary, equity options, an unlimited paid holiday allowance, flexible schedule, a 10% matching pension, a generous parental support policy, private health/dental insurance, personal development budget, group life insurance and relocation support.

We are committed to nurturing diversity and inclusion

At Universal Quantum, we're passionate about working with and for all kinds of minds. As a proud signatory of the Tech Talent Charter (TTC), we have made a number of formal commitments to help hold ourselves accountable to both our team and peers. This includes pledging to collaborate and share best practices with others, to continuously develop plans to drive inclusion across our business, and to collect and share our diversity data annually. We welcome team members from all backgrounds, and work to create an environment where everyone can flourish freely.