Mechanical Engineer Platform & Systems - X Shore

Job Description The Lead Photonics & Quantum Integration will own the technical strategy, execution, and roadmap appendices covering photonic interconnect, integrated silicon photonics, single-photon source integration, and longer-horizon quantum–classical hybrid compute elements within the programme’s technology roadmap. The successful candidate will bridge deep expertise in quantum photonics device physics with the practical demands of semiconductor process integration, working closely with the device teams to identify co-integration opportunities on the shared hardware platform. As a senior photonics engineer you will take ownership of the physical design and verification of cutting-edge photonic integrated circuits (PICs), guiding designs from initial proof-of-concept phases to high-volume manufacturing readiness.   Key Responsibilities Roadmap & Strategy * Lead the Photonics technology roadmap aligned with the programme’s overall progression. * Define go/no-go decision criteria, risk registers, and cost models for photonic integration at each process node, consistent with the programme’s existing MPW and pilot-line budgeting methodology. * Conduct technology horizon scanning and competitive landscape analysis across silicon photonics, photonic quantum computing, and optical interconnect for AI accelerators.   Device & Process Integration * Lead the design, simulation, and characterisation of photonic components (waveguides, modulators, photodetectors, single-photon sources) compatible with the programme’s FEOL + X + BEOL process flow. Layout Execution & Tape-out Ownership: Lead complex, full-loop manual and automated layout designs and mixed-signal functions (high-speed/general I/Os, ESD structures). Drive the full tape-out process, including floor planning, waveguide routing, and mask data preparation. * Design and simulate photonic integrated circuits for communication, sensing, or compute-related applications. Work with fabrication partners to develop layouts and ensure manufacturable designs. Collaborate with electronics, packaging, and test teams to integrate PICs into larger hardware systems. * Verification & Mitigation: Execute rigorous post-layout verification (DRC, LVS, fill, density) across multiple stepping versions. Trace defect sources, mitigate layout-dependent issues, and ensure DRC/LVS cleanliness prior to tape-out. * Evaluate and specify co-integration pathways for photonic elements with the existing HZO ferroelectric and metal-oxide layers, identifying shared ALD and BEOL metal-stack process steps. * Develop optical test and characterisation methodologies from wafer-level through to packaged sub-assembly, defining pass/fail metrics for manufacturing readiness.   Modelling & Simulation * Establish and own the photonics simulation workflow, interfacing with the programme’s existing layered tool chain. * Develop compact models and Verilog-A behavioural descriptions for photonic devices to enable system-level co-simulation with the NC-FET/memristor fabric. * Model optical interconnect power, latency, and bandwidth budgets for hybrid electronic–photonic accelerator architectures.   Team & External Engagement * In time build and lead a small specialist team as the photonics workstream scales through programme phases. * Manage relationships with foundry partners, MPW brokers, and academic collaborators for photonic process access and IP development. * Represent the programme at conferences, review panels, and in publications; contribute to grant and funding applications.   Cross-Programme Contribution * Participate in programme-wide design reviews, providing photonics perspective on hybrid systolic/crossbar architecture decisions, precision formats, and KV-cache strategies. * Contribute to the programme’s future framework, specifically on optical compute and interconnect as an enabling pillar.   Requirements * PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline with a focus on photonics, quantum optics, or integrated photonic devices. Candidates must possess a deep technical understanding of advanced node semiconductor fabrication, sophisticated automation capabilities and knowledge of high-density chip design. * Demonstrated track record in experimental quantum photonics R&D, including design, fabrication liaison, and characterisation of photonic devices or circuits. * Deep knowledge of semiconductor process flows (CMOS front-end and back-end) and an understanding of how photonic elements integrate within or alongside electronic process modules. Understanding of analog circuit layout, Silicon Photonic constraints, and device physics within advanced sub-micron CMOS and SiPh technologies. * Experience translating research-stage photonic technologies toward manufacturable, scalable hardware — ideally within a commercial or national-lab R&D environment. * Strong publication record and the ability to communicate complex photonic and quantum concepts to cross-disciplinary engineering teams. * Proficiency in physical modelling and data analysis (C++, Python, SKILL, TCL, HDL, MATLAB, or equivalent); familiarity with photonic simulation tools (Lumerical, COMSOL, MEEP, or similar). Experience with Cadence Virtuoso (Custom Layout, SDL) and industry-standard verification suites (Calibre, Hercules, ICV, Dracula, or Primeyield) * Experience developing or contributing to multi-year technology roadmaps, including milestone definition, risk assessment, and cost estimation.   The Rewards  We are an international team of quantum technology experts and dedicated business creatives that are working to bring quantum-enabled solutions to the global market. Our brilliant team members enjoy a high degree of freedom working remotely or joining one of our office spaces. We have a vibrant, enthusiastic, passionate and creative culture driven by trust, excellence and continuous improvement. If you join the Terra Quantum team, you can expect:  * An opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the pioneering field of Quantum Technologies as well as an experienced and progressive Leadership team * Gain knowledge of some of the most cutting-edge technology developments in science & engineering  * A chance to be part of one of Europe’s leading technology firms of the upcoming decades * Welcoming, friendly, and professional colleagues * A personal development plan with clear goals for advancement * A competitive salary  * Flexible working arrangements  * A diverse and supportive atmosphere, where innovation and initiative are encouraged   If you are enthusiastic about positively impacting the world and helping to drive the second quantum revolution, let’s talk!    Company description  Quantum technologies have the potential to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges. There have been great advances in all areas of quantum technologies, and new fields of application are opened up every day. Hybrid computer systems that combine classic high-performance computing with quantum computers are already being used to develop solutions in sectors such as logistics, healthcare, finance, energy, automotive and aerospace. Quantum mechanical predictions are also used to obtain unprecedented precision in measurements, generate unbreakable codes, and form the basis of impenetrable communication networks. All these developments are happening right now, and they are happening at Terra Quantum.  At Terra Quantum we are building the world’s leading Quantum Technology company. We offer customers world-class quantum technology expertise organized as “quantum-as-a-service”: hybrid quantum algorithms, quantum compute and quantum enabled security solutions. Through the proprietary quantum cloud, customers have access to a unique technology platform which provides a toolset to solve real-world challenges in the realms of machine learning, optimization and simulation, today. In 2022, the company closed its Series A financing round with a $75m fundraise.  Quantum physics has, in some respects, parallels to the machine language of our computers-the zeros and ones into which our keyboard or touchscreen instructions are translated for execution in the computer-only on a larger scale: it is the machine language of the universe. The second quantum revolution is based on the control of individual quantum systems, such as individual atoms. We use quantum computers to solve currently unsolvable problems, simulate molecules and their interactions, find drugs for diseases that are not yet curable, find new materials, or make artificial intelligence stronger. Quantum is now.  Terra Quantum is a future-focused quantum services and technology company working on making the second quantum revolution a reality. Terra Quantum’s activities span all areas, markets, and industries globally.  * Our purpose is to pioneer quantum technologies to change the world for good, * Our vision is to lead the quantum revolution and be the trailblazer in technology solutions, shaping a better future for humankind to thrive in, and * Our mission is to unleash the power of quantum tech to deliver meaningful solutions today Terra Quantum is an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity, inclusion and employee well-being.

At NewOrbit Space, our mission is to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight. We are currently building satellites that can operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. YOUR ROLE You will be the technical process owner for the AURA X propulsion AIT programme, responsible for turning qualification requirements and engineering intent into a complete library of test procedures, test plans, and assembly instructions. You will work alongside the Propulsion Design and Test Engineers, report into the Lead AIT Engineer, and partner closely with the Technical Programme Manager to ensure delivery. You will own the procedural and logistical backbone of the propulsion qualification campaign - from first-article assembly through to system-level acceptance testing. This is a mid-level role for someone who can translate system knowledge into rigorous, operator-ready documentation, and then execute those procedures hands-on. Qualification strategy and test logic are defined by the Technical Programme Manager; your role is to take that framework and build the detailed technical processes that make it executable - and then run them. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES * Own the writing, review, and maintenance of all assembly instructions, work instructions, and build procedures - from component level through to integrated module on the propulsion system. * Write and own test plans and test procedures for propulsion campaigns, including pressure test, proof test, leak test, functional flow test, and performance characterisation. * Maintain the AIT schedule for the propulsion system, interfacing with test facilities and ensuring all GSE is available for each test in the plan. * Ensure that all equipment is kept calibrated. * Develop and maintain hazardous operations procedures for all pressurised system activities, in line with safety requirements defined for the programme. * Write propellant handling and loading procedures. * Execute test and assembly procedures hands-on, operating test rigs and instrumentation and recording results to programme traceability standards. * Maintain the propulsion procedure library - version control, review cycles, and configuration management of all procedural documents. * Support integration of the propulsion system into the satellite structure, contributing assembly procedures for the integration sequence. * Manage non-conformances on propulsion hardware - raising NCRs, supporting dispositions with the propulsion design team, and updating procedures where needed. * Perform goods in inspection of incoming components, against purchase orders, drawings, and certificates of conformance. * Coordinate with technicians ensuring tasks are understood and completed in line with the schedule. * Support environmental test campaigns involving the propulsion system, contributing test procedures and witnessing campaigns. * Support satellite AIT activities. FUNDAMENTAL REQUIREMENTS * 3+ years' experience writing test procedures, assembly instructions, or work instructions for mechanical, fluidic, or propulsion hardware in a flight or high-reliability environment. * Practical hands-on experience executing the procedures you write - comfortable on the bench as well as at the desk. * Experience with pressurised systems - sufficient to write safe, compliant procedures and execute them competently. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and system documentation to produce accurate procedural content. * Good documentation discipline - understands version control, review processes, and what traceability means in a flight programme context. * ESD-aware working practices and understanding of contamination control requirements. * Strong safety mindset around pressurised and hazardous operations. NICE-TO-HAVES * Experience in a space, aerospace, defence, or other high-reliability industry environment. * Familiarity with pressure testing methods (proof, leak, burst, flow) and the standards that govern them. * Experience with vacuum chamber operation and maintenance. * Experience with electric propulsion systems or vacuum test environments. * Familiarity with ECSS standards or equivalent quality and workmanship frameworks. * Experience handling xenon or other inert propellants, including loading and facility operations. * Background in mechanical AIT as well as propulsion - comfortable contributing to wider satellite integration activities. PERSONALITY * Writes procedures the way a good operator would want to receive them - clear, unambiguous, and complete. * Equally at home writing documentation and getting hands-on with hardware. * Safety-conscious around pressurised and hazardous systems without needing to be prompted. * Collaborative - works closely with design engineers to extract the technical content needed for good procedures, and communicates problems early. * Comfortable in a fast-moving programme where procedures are living documents that evolve with the hardware. WHY NEWORBIT SPACE? * Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations. * Unmatched Ownership and Impact – You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology. * Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success. * Comprehensive Benefits Package – Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc. * Hybrid Work - A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week. * Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Support - We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.