Applied Science Technician

AWE; Aldermaston; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology development company in the UK is seeking an Applied Science Technician to join their Technology Development Group. This role involves carrying out a wide range of maintenance activities on diagnostics, supporting the ORION laser facility and collaborating with engineers and scientists during laboratory experiments. The ideal candidate should have a relevant qualification in a STEM subject and practical skills in mechanical or electronic fields. A competitive salary and professional development opportunities are part of the offer.

Benefits

9-day working fortnight

208 hours of annual leave

Contributory pension scheme

Life insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Professional Career Development

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounts on everyday spending

Special Leave Policy

Qualifications

• A recognised qualification in a STEM subject (computing, science, engineering, physics) is required.
• Candidates must demonstrate practical skills and fault finding techniques.
• Previous experience in a laboratory environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Carry out planned and preventative maintenance on diagnostics.
• Assist with the assembly and testing of bespoke hardware.
• Support engineers and scientists in laboratory experiments.

Skills

Practical skills in mechanical, electronic, or similar areas

Fault finding techniques and methodologies

Planning and prioritisation of tasks

Use of testing and measuring equipment

Health and Safety at Work awareness

Education

A recognised qualification (City & Guilds, BTEC Level 2)

Job description

AWE has an exciting opportunity for an Applied Science Technician to join our Technology Development Group, bringing their experience to AWE and to successfully playing a key role in delivering for our customers.

Working within our Plasma Diagnostic Support Team, this role will give you the opportunity to carry out a wide range of planned and preventative maintenance activities on diagnostics in support of the ORION laser facility, assisting with the assembly and testing of bespoke hardware and supporting engineers and scientists with conducting laboratory experiments.

Location: Aldermaston, West Berkshire (RG7 4PR)

We re located between Basingstoke and Reading, with free onsite car parking.

Due to the classified nature of this role, it is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston during their working hours.

Salary: £24,000 - £26,000 per annum (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience) plus role specific allowances. Optional, paid over-time would be available in this role.

Closing Date: 28th August 2024

More About the Role.

Would you like to work in Orion - the largest and most powerful laser system and experimental facility for high‑energy density physics in the UK?

Orion delivers high-quality output to a demanding user programme. It recreates physical conditions in the lab like those found in the heart of the sun, with its high‑power laser beamlines, all housed in a building the size of a football pitch.

On a day‑to‑day basis, you will apply and hone your skills, working in accordance with task instructions in a safe and effective manner whilst maintaining a clean, safe, and secure environment within the laboratory.

Who Are We Looking For?

Candidates will need to be able to demonstrate the following qualifications:

• A recognised relevant qualification such as City & Guilds, BTEC Level 2 or equivalent experience in a STEM subject (computing, science, engineering, physics).

Candidates would benefit from knowledge/experience of any of the following:

• Practical skills in mechanical, electronic, or similar areas.
• Fault finding techniques and methodologies on specialist equipment.
• Planning and prioritisation of tasks and making decisions relating to own discipline or work area.
• Review and comment on relevant documentation and reports as requested.
• Use of testing and measuring equipment.
• Maintenance and repair of electronic/electrical systems down to modular level.
• Health and Safety at Work and Safe System of Work and promoting a safe, secure culture.
• Previous experience in a laboratory/workshop environment.
• Operational Craft experience

Candidates must be able to work in radiological designated areas.

What will you get from us?

AWE has a range of benefits to suit you. These include:

• 9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off work.
• 208 hours of annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• A market leading contributory pension scheme - we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution.
• Life insurance of 4 × your annual salary.
• Consideration for flexible working arrangements so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle.
• Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
• Opportunities for Professional Career Development that include funding for the annual membership of a relevant professional body, access to mentors and training.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
• Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending savings.
• Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring for your family.

Important things you need to know:

• You must be a British citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 10 years.
• Interviews will be 90 minutes in length and will be held over Microsoft Teams. You will be required to prepare a 10‑minute presentation in advance.
• Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE.