Graduate Hardware Engineer
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Summary
A graduate-level hardware engineer at Octopus Energy works hands-on across the full hardware lifecycle of EV chargers and smart energy devices — specification, prototyping, testing/validation, certification documentation, and root-cause analysis. Core focus: circuit design fundamentals, mains-voltage safety, and collaboration with firmware and product teams.
We are looking for a motivated Graduate Hardware Engineer to join our small but highly focused Hardware Development team. You will experience the full spectrum of the hardware lifecycle, making a tangible impact on products that deploy directly into thousands of homes.
You will play a hands-on role in bringing our next generation of Electric Vehicle (EV) and smart energy hardware to life. This position is perfect for an adaptable, enthusiastic graduate who enjoys tackling a wide variety of tasks and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
What you will do:
- Hardware Development: Assist in the end-to-end specification and development engineering of EV chargers and other innovative smart energy hardware.
- Testing & Validation: Conduct rigorous hands-on testing, prototyping, and validation of hardware components to ensure safety, reliability, and performance.
- Certification Support: Assist the team in navigating complex regulatory landscapes, preparing documentation and hardware for crucial industry certifications and compliance standards.
- Problem Solving: Actively investigate hardware issues and perform root-cause analysis to resolve technical challenges.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with firmware/software, and product teams both internal and external companies to integrate hardware seamlessly into the broader Octopus technology ecosystem.
What you will need:
- Education: A recent graduate degree (BSc, BEng) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Excellent Communicator: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively discuss technical concepts with both engineering peers and commercial areas of the business.
- Adaptability: A versatile mindset with a genuine enjoyment of varied daily tasks—from product testing and validation, hands on hardware testing, to writing reports and brainstorming design solutions.
- Technical & Safety Foundation: A solid theoretical understanding of circuit design/operation and a ‘can do’ approach to problem-solving. Crucially, you are comfortable working with mains voltages and demonstrate a strict, uncompromising approach to electrical safety.
- Logistics: Ability and willingness to work flexibly between our Slough office, Oxford Street office and your home setup as required.
Why else you'll love it here
• Wondering what the salary for this role is? Just ask us! On a call with one of our recruiters it's something we always cover as we genuinely want to match your experience with the correct salary. The reason why we don't advertise is because we honestly have a degree of flexibility and would never want salary to be a reason why someone doesn't apply to Octopus - what's more important to us is finding the right octofit!
• Octopus Energy Group is a unique culture. An organisation where people learn, decide, and build quicker. Where people work with autonomy, alongside a wide range of amazing co-owners, on projects that break new ground. We want your hard work to be rewarded with perks you actually care about! We were named the UK's top company to work for in 2025, and we ranked in the top ten in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026. Our Group CEO, Greg has recorded a podcast about our culture and how we empower our people. We’ve also been placed in the top 10 companies for senior leadership
• Visit our UK perks hub - Octopus Employee Benefits
If this sounds like you then we'd love to hear from you, tell us what you care about, why Octopus feels right and most importantly, bring us the real you! Applying for jobs can be a bit scary so have a nose through some of our tips first 🚀
P.S. Our process usually takes up to 4 weeks, but we’ll always do our best to flex around what works for you. Along the way, you’ll chat with our recruitment team and your Recruiter will help you throughout different stages. Got any burning questions before then? Drop us a message at talent@octoenergy.com and we’d love to help!
Are you ready for a career with us? We want to ensure you have all the tools and environment you need to unleash your potential. Need any specific accommodations? Whether you require specific accommodations or have a unique preference, let us know, and we'll do what we can to customise your interview process for comfort and maximum magic!
Studies have shown that some groups of people, like women, are less likely to apply to a role unless they meet 100% of the job requirements. Whoever you are, if you like one of our jobs, we encourage you to apply as you might just be the candidate we hire. Across Octopus, we're looking for genuinely decent people who are honest and empathetic. Our people are our strongest asset and the unique skills and perspectives people bring to the team are the driving force of our success. As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute. Our commitment is to provide equal opportunities, an inclusive work environment, and fairness for everyone.
Skills
As published by lever · 4 questions · 2 written answers
Basics
Which location are you applying for?, Resume/CV, Full name, Email, Phone, Current location, Current company, LinkedIn URL, Twitter URL, GitHub URL, Portfolio URL, Other website, What gender do you identify as?, What ethnicity do you identify as?Please select the ethnicity you identify most with, Do you identify as neurodiverse?
Pick from a list (2)
- We’re proud to be a registered visa sponsor at Octopus Energy. We consider sponsorship on a case by case basis and while we're sorry we are not able to offer it for every role, understanding your right to work status helps us explore what options might be open for you. Could you please tell us what’s your current right to work status?
- Do you have space at home to work with equipment or are you in commuting distance to Slough?
Written answers (2)
- Before your skills and experience, we’re looking for the right kind of person – the kind who is utterly passionate about our mission and who thrives working how we work. So, please let us know why the Octopus Energy Group stands out to you?
- What is your favourite green / smart invention and why?