Senior System Architect

Infinitesima; Abingdon; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative semiconductor technology company in Abingdon, UK is seeking a Senior System Architect to define and guide system functionality across product lines. The role involves owning technical aspects of the Metron Platform, working collaboratively with project managers, and influencing design strategies. The ideal candidate has a background in engineering, extensive experience in instrumentation design, and strong project management skills. The position includes competitive salary, hybrid working, and diverse benefits.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Hybrid working

25 days annual leave

Private health care benefits

Personal pension contributions

Generous EMI Share scheme

Qualifications

• 5 years’ experience in an instrumentation design/development position.
• Exposure to engineering change and manufacturing cycles/processes.
• Experience with environmental control such as vibration and temperature.

Responsibilities

• Own the technical aspects of the Metron Platform System Function.
• Identify optimal design solutions in collaboration with the product team.
• Write and update the system function section of design documentation.
• Identify technical risks and embed mitigations in design planning.
• Guide cross‑functional engineering teams to ensure quality.
• Lead or participate in key reviews to assess system designs.

Skills

Instrumentation design/development

Project management methodologies

Excellent communication in technical English

Systems Engineering experience

Complex instrument experience (mechanics, electronics, etc.)

Education

BSc/BEng in Physics, Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Infinitesima was spun out of the University of Bristol in 2001 and has been developing innovative metrology solutions which improve speed and precision in the manufacture of semiconductors. The company’s technology combines the 3-dimensional surface detection capability of atomic force microscopy (AFM), with high-speed laser activation and the accuracy of interferometry. The Rapid Probe Microscope (RPM™) is protected by an extensive patent portfolio. The company’s RPM™ technology is being used by leading semiconductor equipment companies globally. Semiconductor devices provide the foundations on which progress in the technology sector are enabled. From Smartphones to Artificial Intelligence, 5G communications to autonomous vehicles, all are made possible through advances in semiconductor processes. Scaling these processes requires sub-nanometer measurement of increasingly complex 3D structures to enable more powerful devices.

Based in Abingdon, UK, we are a high calibre team of over 95 people and continue to grow. We are backed by global financial and industry investors including Applied Ventures , the strategic venture arm of the industry leading equipment company.

Reports To Systems Engineering Manager

The Opportunity

We are looking for a technically driven Senior System Architect to join our team and take a pivotal role in defining and guiding system functionality across our cutting‑edge product lines. You will lead the technical aspects of the Metron Platform System Function collaboratively with the project manager within a multidisciplinary environment, influencing critical design and project decisions that shape the future of our systems.

This role is ideal for an experienced system architect or senior engineer who enjoys diving deep into functionality definitions, technical specifications, and cross‑functional coordination. You'll be empowered to influence design strategies, manage technical risk, and maintain performance roadmaps across complex systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the technical aspects of the Metron Platform System Function incl. mechanical and electrical layout, Bill‑of‑Materials and safety.
• Identify optimal design solutions in collaboration with the broader product team.
• Write and update the system function section of system design documentation, including work breakdown structures for other engineering disciplines.
• Identify technical risks and embed mitigations directly into design and project planning.
• Interface with project leaders to define deliverables, timelines, and competency needs.
• Guide cross‑functional engineering teams to ensure delivery quality, performance and resolve technical conflicts.
• Lead or participate in key reviews and decision‑making forums to assess and shape system designs.

Personal Qualities

• Self-management: Able to work independently, setting priorities for own work based upon the company goals and targets.
• Teamwork: Engages with other member for the company to bring the best solutions to the problem. Recognise the value that fellow company members bring to enhance own abilities. Supports colleagues with their tasks when critical to the company goals.
• Impact and Influence: Establishes themselves as the knowledge centre in their own field and lead with confidence.
• Ownership & Initiative: React and address both short‑ and medium‑term issues and proactively takes action to solve them.
• Results Orientation: Focus on the company goal, avoid distraction, making timely decisions to achieve the target.

Education / Qualifications

• Either a BSc/BEng in Physics, Engineering or similar, or a clear equivalent path through engineering apprenticeship and design/development positions.

Professional Skills/ Abilities

• 5 years’ experience in an instrumentation design/development position.
• Experience of planning and addressing complex tasks and activities.
• Exposure to engineering change and manufacturing cycles/processes incl. PLM.
• Experience of project management methodologies and technical documentation.
• Excellent communicator at all levels - Fluency in written and oral technical English.
• Experience of Systems Engineering within leading‑edge instrumentation, measurement or advanced process tools, preferably for the Semiconductor or similar end‑user industry.
• Experience working on complex instruments containing several of the following: mechanics, electronics, software, motion systems, robotics, PLC, control systems, acoustics, optics or similar.
• Experience with environmental control such as vibration and temperature.

In addition to a competitive salary and an annual bonus. Infinitesima offers flexible working hours, hybrid working, 25 days annual leave, death in service and private health care benefits, personal pension contributions of 4% with salary sacrifice and a generous EMI Share scheme.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Our strength lies in the varied perspectives that come from different cultures, experiences, and identities. We believe that true innovation is fuelled by collaboration—locally and globally—and strive to foster an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully and thrive. If you require adjustments to take part in the recruitment process, please let us know—we’ll do our best to support you.