Software Engineer

Quantum Detectors Ltd.; Harwell; Hybrid; GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A tech company specializing in advanced detectors seeks a passionate C++ Software Engineer in Harwell, UK. You will design and maintain software for cutting-edge scientific instruments. Ideal candidates have a degree in a relevant field, and strong C++ and Python skills. The role offers a salary around £60k, a hybrid work environment, and numerous employee benefits including 30 days of holiday, enhanced pension contributions, and a supportive team culture.

Benefits

30 days holiday plus public holidays

Enhanced pension contributions

Flexible hours

Access to gym and sports clubs

Vibrant campus events

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant field like Computer Science, Physics, or Mathematics.
• Strong experience in C++ and Python.
• Comfortable working with both Linux and Windows systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop software for detector control and data acquisition.
• Work closely with engineers and scientists to ensure software meets needs.
• Collaborate across disciplines to maintain system functionality.

Skills

C++ Development

Python Development

Linux Command Line

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or similar

Job description

Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire | Circa £60,000 (DOE) | Hybrid

Help build the tools that power breakthrough science

Quantum Detectors designs and delivers advanced detector technology used in X-ray and Electron Microscopy applications at the world’s leading research facilities. Our products help scientists push the boundaries of what’s possible, from materials science to medicine to next-gen energy research.

We’re looking for a passionate, collaborative C++ Software Engineer who wants to contribute to something bigger than code alone. In our Engineering team, you won't just be an individual contributor - you'll be part of a close-knit, supportive group that thrives on shared problem-solving, curiosity, and continuous improvement. If you bring energy, drive, and a love for building high-performance scientific software, you will feel right at home here.

What You’ll Do

• Design, develop, and maintain software for detector control and data acquisition
• Work closely with engineers and scientists to ensure software meets real-world system needs
• Build and optimise data analysis algorithms for processing detector outputs
• Test, debug, and troubleshoot both software and related hardware components
• Collaborate across disciplines to keep the entire system functioning smoothly
• Produce clear, high-quality documentation
• Continuously expand your technical knowledge and skills

This is hands‑on, meaningful engineering work — the type that has a direct impact on how scientists run experiments, capture data, and push the boundaries of discovery.

What You Bring

Essential:

• Degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or similar
• Strong C++ and Python development experience
• Comfortable with Linux and Windows (including command-line use)
• Great communication and teamworking skills
• Enjoy working in a multi-disciplinary, collaborative environment

Desirable:

• Experience with scientific instrumentation
• Familiarity with the C++ standard library (memory management, filesystem, etc.)
• Experience working under Agile methodologies
• Knowledge of Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

What we offer

This is a fast-growing business where everyone contributes, supports one another, and gets stuck in when needed. The work is varied and no two days look the same - if you enjoy solving problems, learning, and being part of a team that genuinely cares about what they create, you’ll thrive here.

• Circa £60k salary (DOE)
• 30 days holiday (plus public holidays)
• Enhanced pension contributions
• 35-hour working week + flexible hours
• Hybrid working environment
• A vibrant campus with cafés, gym, sports clubs, social events, and more

Join us and help build the software behind some of the world’s most advanced scientific instruments.

No agents, please.

REF-(Apply online only)