Additive Manufactuing & Prototyping Engineer

About the CompanyQuell is a high-growth British defence and security AI technology start-up developing solutions to counter drone, vehicle, and human threats across the military, civilian and critical national infrastructure sectors.We are currently seeking Additive Manufacturing & Prototyping Engineers to support rapid prototyping, fabrication, and small-batch production across our engineering and R&D teams.This role is open to both junior and senior candidates, with responsibilities adjusted to match experience.You will operate advanced additive manufacturing equipment, support mechanical and hands-on prototyping, and help develop components used in cutting-edge sensing, robotics, and AI-enabled systems.Key ResponsibilitiesAdditive Manufacturing (3D Printing)Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting 3D printers (FDM, SLA, SLS)Preparing, slicing, and optimising print files for accuracy, strength, and speedManaging setup, calibration, material changes, and print monitoringPerforming post-processing tasks (support removal, curing, sanding, surface finishing)Maintaining AM logs, material inventory, and build documentationPrototyping & FabricationSupporting hands-on prototyping for mechanical, electronic, and optical assembliesFabricating prototype components using workshop tools (e.g., drills, saws, sanders, small mills, hand tools)Assisting with machining simple parts or fixtures (CNC experience is a plus)Producing jigs, fixtures, brackets, enclosures, and test hardware for engineering teamsAssembling prototype systems and supporting integration with electronics or mechanical housingsBuilding and maintaining test rigs used in R&DDesign Support & CADWorking with engineers to refine designs for manufacturability (DFAM)Making basic CAD modifications (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape, etc.)Preparing and orienting CAD models for additive manufacturingSuggesting improvements for strength, tolerances, print times, or assembly considerationsQuality, Testing & Workflow DevelopmentInspecting printed and fabricated parts for accuracy, defects, and performanceKeeping the workshop and print lab organised, safe, and well maintainedHelping develop improved workflows for print quality, repeatability, and efficiencySupporting experimental material trials or advanced AM processes (for senior candidates)Senior-Level Additions (where applicable)Leading AM strategy, including printer selection, material choices, and process improvementsTraining junior team members and establishing best-practice standardsSupporting experimental research in lattice structures, high-performance materials, or hybrid AM/CNC workflowsRequirementsEssentialExperience using 3D printers (academic, hobbyist, or professional)Basic CAD skills for preparing/modifying print filesStrong hands-on workshop or fabrication experienceFamiliarity with slicing software (Cura, PrusaSlicer, PreForm, etc.)Good understanding of mechanical principles and tolerancesAbility to work independently and manage multiple jobs in parallelHigh attention to detail and qualityStrong organisation and documentation habitsPlease note: While you do not need active clearance to apply, you must be eligible to undergo UK Security Check (SC) clearance vetting if selected.DesirableProfessional experience in additive manufacturing, fabrication, prototyping, or mechanical engineeringKnowledge of advanced materials (nylon composites, carbon fibre, engineering resins)Ability to operate or support CNC machining or laser cuttingExperience building test jigs and fixturesUnderstanding of DFAM principlesExperience repairing or upgrading 3D printersFamiliarity with electronics assembly or wiringBackground in robotics or hardware developmentIdeally, a Bachelor’s degree (2:1 or above) or Master’s degree from Cambridge University, Oxford University or Imperial College London. A First-Class degree is desirable if the degree has been obtained from another university.This role is suitable for both junior technicians with strong potential and experienced specialists looking to shape prototyping capability in a deep-tech environment.Details

Location: North Uttlesford / Greater Cambridge area, on-siteFive days a week on-site (ie: this is not a hybrid role)Full UK driving licence required.

If this isn't held, candidates will need to commit to obtaining within 6 months of their start dateApplicants must be fully eligible to work in the UK without restriction, time limit, or the need for current or future sponsorship.To ApplyPlease apply via LinkedIn with your CV and a short covering note, including your salary expectations and availability.