ElectroMechanical Research Technician

University of South Hampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in the UK is seeking a motivated ElectroMechanical Research Technician to join a cutting-edge team. This role involves advancing prototypes into robust sensor platforms for nutrient monitoring in environmental settings. Ideal candidates should have a degree in ElectroMechanical Engineering and hands-on experience with electronics, circuit design, and mechanical prototyping. Opportunities to collaborate on high-impact projects are available.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Flexible working approach

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Qualifications

• Experience in sensor or instrumentation development is desirable.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively within a research environment.
• Open to learning new tools and skills.

Responsibilities

• Capture design requirements and specifications for sensor system components.
• Design, prototype, and assemble electronic and mechanical subsystems.
• Develop circuit boards and build calibration rigs.
• Test devices in the lab and deploy prototypes for field testing.

Skills

Hands-on experience with electronics (Arduino, Raspberry Pi)

Circuit design

Mechanical prototyping

3D printing

Strong programming and data analysis abilities

Education

Degree in ElectroMechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or closely related discipline

Tools

CAD design (e.g., SolidWorks)

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated ElectroMechanical Research Technician to join a cutting-edge research team at the University of Southampton. This role is part of a NERC-funded project focused on the development and field testing of advanced microfluidic sensor systems for nutrient monitoring in environmental and aquaculture settings.

Working under the supervision of the project lead and with other project members and partners, you will help advance existing prototypes into robust sensor platforms through design refinement, laboratory testing, and real-world deployment.

Key Responsibilities

• Capture design requirements and specifications for sensor system components
• Design, prototype, and assemble electronic and mechanical subsystems
• Develop circuit boards (design, outsource fabrication, in-house soldering and testing)
• Design mechanical parts (using SolidWorks or similar), produce via 3D printing or machining
• Build calibration rigs and other supporting lab setups as needed
• Test the devices in the lab. Deploy sensor prototypes for field testing in natural water bodies and aquaculture systems
• Conduct data acquisition and analysis, maintain technical files, and contribute to project reports and scientific publications

About You

• A degree in ElectroMechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline
• Hands‑on experience with electronics (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), circuit design, mechanical prototyping, and 3D printing
• Skilled in CAD design (e.g. SolidWorks) and familiar with fabrication methods
• Strong programming and data analysis abilities
• Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a research environment
• Open to learning new tools, skills and working across disciplines
• Previous experience in sensor or instrumentation development is desirable

Why Join Us?

• Work on a high‑impact environmental sensing project
• Collaborate with leading academics and industry partners
• Access to cutting‑edge facilities and a vibrant research environment
• Be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, cover letter, and a summary of relevant experience or past projects. We especially welcome candidates who demonstrate a passion for applied engineering and interdisciplinary research.

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on [phone] or [e-mail] quoting the job number.