Junior Research & Development Support Technician Stoke-on-Trent

Rapiscan Systems; Biddulph; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Rapiscan Systems in the United Kingdom is seeking a hands-on engineer-in-training to join the X-ray Imaging Laboratory. You will support hardware testing, integration, validation and analysis from concept to testing and demonstration.

The role offers exposure to detector array technologies, data acquisition, and reporting. Candidates should have practical lab experience, basic programming (Python/MATLAB) and a keen eye for detail.

Qualifications

• BTEC Level 3, HNC/HND or apprenticeship in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics or related field.
• Practical experience with tools, wiring, mechanical assembly or technical projects.
• Basic understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
• Strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn.
• Good communication and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of data acquisition systems.
• Basic programming skills, such as Python or MATLAB.
• Experience in a laboratory or testing environment.
• Interest in imaging technology, sensors or electronics.

Responsibilities

• Assist with hardware and software setup, operation and data capture activities.
• Support testing of X-ray imaging subcomponents, including data collection and analysis.
• Assemble detector units and prototype systems for evaluation and testing.
• Contribute to quality assurance activities and root cause investigations.
• Support engineering projects focused on detector array technologies.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, software and firmware.
• Document test results and produce clear technical reports.
• Support production, engineering and commissioning teams with FATs and customer demonstrations.
• Ensure laboratory safety procedures are followed at all times.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Python/MATLAB programming

Data acquisition knowledge

Electrical engineering basics

Mechanical engineering basics

Willingness to learn

Education

BTEC Level 3 / HNC/HND / apprenticeship in Electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics

Tools

Data acquisition hardware

Test equipment

Job description

Rapiscan Systems is an industry leader in detection technology, providing cargo and vehicle

inspection systems and services for ports, borders, military, high-threat facilities, and checkpoints to help customers combat terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal immigration, and trade fraud. We offer a broad array of scanning system configurations that leverage low-, medium-,and high-energy X-ray technology—or multiple X-ray technologies—to address each customer’s unique security application requirements. Our commitment to excellence in imaging performance, innovative design, and uncompromising quality ensures our solutions consistently deliver best-in-class imaging, high reliability, and operator satisfaction, to help customers find threats and contraband with ease and confidence.

About the Role

This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work within our X-ray Imaging Laboratory, supporting hardware testing, integration, validation and analysis activities. You will work alongside experienced engineers and contribute to the development of innovative products from concept through to testing and demonstration.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with hardware and software setup, operation and data capture activities.
• Support testing of X-ray imaging subcomponents, including data collection and analysis.
• Assemble detector units and prototype systems for evaluation and testing.
• Contribute to quality assurance activities and root cause investigations.
• Support engineering projects focused on detector array technologies.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, software and firmware.
• Document test results and produce clear technical reports.
• Support production, engineering and commissioning teams with FATs and customer demonstrations.
• Ensure laboratory safety procedures are followed at all times.
• BTEC Level 3, HNC/HND, apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics or a related discipline.
• Practical experience with tools, wiring, mechanical assembly or technical projects.
• Basic understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
• Strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn.
• Good communication and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of data acquisition systems.
• Basic programming skills, such as Python or MATLAB.
• Experience within a laboratory or testing environment.
• Interest in imaging technology, sensors or electronics.

Why Join Rapiscan Systems?

This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a world-class R&D environment, working with innovative technology while developing your engineering skills and long-term career prospects.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must already possess the right to live and work in the UK without employer sponsorship