Electronic Engineer (Quantum) - London (UK)

About ORCA Computing:

ORCA Computing is probably one of the UK’s most innovative and disruptive startups. A spin-off from the University of Oxford, ORCA is co-founded by a quartet of two of the world’s leading experts in quantum optics and two experienced entrepreneurs. Our mission is to compete in the global race to build the world’s first useful quantum computer. Entering a race alongside the likes of Google, IBM and Microsoft is not something that we take lightly, but with our novel optical fibre based technology and working with a world class team, we have a shot at becoming one of the key players defining the future of quantum computing.

ORCA’s approach uses single photons, optical fibres and off-the-shelf telecom components to carry out quantum information processing — a completely revolutionary idea that is only made possible using our proprietary technology.

By joining ORCA, you’ll be working within a fast-paced multidisciplinary team of the very best quantum scientists, engineers and mathematicians. You will be highly intelligent and well trained in your area; creative and able to solve complex problems. We are all relaxed, but at the same time know what it takes to get things done, and are not afraid to challenge each other to achieve the very heights of what is possible.

Role Description:

We are currently seeking an experienced Electronic Engineer to lead the development of ORCA’s electronic systems. The candidate will be in charge of electronics development for the next stage of our photonic quantum systems, where electronic design and assemblies are critical for a range of functions. As the technology matures, design will focus on industrialisation. The candidate will lead key electronics projects independently as well as assist the rest of the technical team in electronics/mechanical-related jobs.

The candidate must have expertise in high-speed digital electronics and field programmable gate array (FPGA) devices as well as radio-frequency - engineering in the 1-5GHz frequency range.

The candidate must be adaptable and willing to work mostly independently while collaborating within a small team of highly autonomous but coordinated individuals. An ability to communicate well with physicists, theorists and non-technical team members is also important.

Principal Responsibilities:

- Lead the development of the specified electronic systems, following high level specifications.
- Responsible for all aspects of the electronic systems for multiple projects - from troubleshooting, to fixing, and modelling.
- Analysis of the required input and output signals as defined in technical briefs.
- Develop computer interfaces for electronic systems (write drivers, GUIs for control).
- Programme fast GHz FPGA systems and custom PGA logic functions.
- Responsible for integration and testing within larger systems.
- Carry-out detailed analysis of the required input and output signals as defined in the technical briefs.
- Collaborate with ORCA’s team of experimentalists and engineers to define and execute the technical roadmap for the company.
- Help to improve design procedures and actively contribute to the design of the wider systems, when applicable.
- Write and maintain documentation of the developing systems, as well as provide interim and final project reporting.
- Uphold ethics and values of the company.

Candidate Requirements:

- Bachelor/Master degree or equivalent in electronic engineering
- 3+ years of experience in electronic board development in industry environment
- Demonstrable track record of successfully delivering projects
- Experience developing high-speed FPGA programming
- Experience in microcontroller programming (e.g. Arduino)
- Candidate should thrive in a dynamic small business environment
- Motivated, independent, good team worker and well organized
- Problem solving skills and analytical ability
- Ability to think creatively

Other Requirements:

Access to PCB design software such as Eagle or Altium

Access to vendor specific FPGA development suite such as Intel/Altera Quartus II or Xilinix ISE

Access to equipment such as oscilloscopes and pulse generators

To apply:

To apply, please send a cover letter and a copy of your CV/resume to:

careers@orcacomputing.com