Commissioning Engineer

Rullion Managed Services; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A technical services provider based in Abingdon is seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer to lead the commissioning of a plasma deposition reactor upgrade. This hands-on role involves executing commissioning activities, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and liaising with a multidisciplinary team. Candidates should hold a degree in a relevant engineering discipline and have experience with complex experimental rigs. This position offers opportunities to work in a dynamic research environment focused on innovative battery technologies.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in commissioning complex experimental or research rigs, ideally within a laboratory or fumehood environment.
• Knowledge of vacuum systems and gas handling, including hydrogen processes.
• Strong understanding of P&IDs, PFDs, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning activities and execute commissioning of the mini-PDR upgrade rig.
• Perform installation, calibration, and functional checks of rig components.
• Support performance testing and optimisation of the mini-PDR upgrade rig.

Skills

Commissioning of experimental rigs

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Vacuum systems

Gas handling systems

Job description

Description

This individual will join the project team as Commissioning Engineer to support the commissioning (inactive and active) and operations of the mini-PDR (plasma deposition reactor) upgrade rig. This is a fumehood research experiment to encapsulate tritiated diamond batteries in hydrogen in collaboration with academia and industry. The rig is housed in the Materials Research Facility on Culham Campus.

This will be largely hands on work and will involve working and liaising with the project team / technicians / health physics / others as required.

Accountabilities

• Lead commissioning activities.
• Plan and execute both inactive and active commissioning of the mini-PDR upgrade rig in accordance with project requirements and safety protocols.
• Perform physical installation, calibration, and functional checks of rig components within the fumehood environment.
• Support performance testing and optimisation of the mini-PDR upgrade rig.
• Liaise effectively with project team members, technicians, health physics, and other relevant parties to ensure smooth commissioning and operational readiness.
• Adhere to safety standards and requirements, particularly regarding tritium handling.
• Identify, diagnose, and resolve technical issues during commissioning and initial operations, escalating where necessary.
• Produce clear commissioning records, test results, and operational readiness reports for internal review.
• Assist in transitioning the rig from commissioning to operational phase, ensuring all systems meet performance and safety criteria.
• Participate in readiness reviews, meetings, and discussions to support technical dialogue and project management activities.
• Train other operators on system functionality and operating procedures.

Essential Criteria

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in commissioning complex experimental or research rigs, ideally within a laboratory or fumehood environment.
• Knowledge of vacuum systems and gas handling, including hydrogen processes.
• Strong understanding of P&IDs, PFDs, and control systems.
• Understanding of safety standards and regulatory compliance for hazardous materials (e.g., tritium handling, flammable gases, radiological safety).
• Familiarity with risk assessment and method statements for commissioning and operations.
• Comfortable working in multidisciplinary teams, including technicians, safety specialists, and project managers.
• Great problem solving skills and strong communication skills.

Rullion celebrates and supports diversity and is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for both employees and applicants