Mechanical Beamline Technician

Squeaky Wheel Promotions; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading scientific facility as a Mechanical Beamline Technician. You will support operational and research activities, ensuring the functionality of advanced scientific instrumentation. This role offers opportunities for professional development and collaboration with top scientists in various fields. Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave and flexible working hours.

Benefits

26 days annual leave

Flexible working hours

Defined benefit pension scheme

Onsite amenities

Qualifications

• Experience in cryogenics, high temperatures, or ultra-high vacuum.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain beamline infrastructure and instruments.
• Conduct regular inspections of equipment for safety compliance.
• Assist scientists with user experiments.

Skills

Mechanical Assembly

Communication

Education

ONC or GNVQ Level 2

Tools

Machining

Milling

Turning

Job description

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About Us

Diamond Light Source is the UK's national synchrotron; a large scientific facility designed to produce intense beams of X-rays, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Our scientists use this light to study a wide range of subjects, from new medicines and treatments for diseases to innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology.

Salary and Location

£32,363 - £34,429 per annum

Harwell, Oxfordshire

Reference

11594

About The Role

We are seeking a Mechanical Technician to support the operational and scientific research activities of our I15-1 beamline. This beamline conducts experiments on the local structure of materials across various scientific fields, including catalysis, energy materials, and pharmaceuticals. Experiments involve a range of ambient and non-ambient conditions using bespoke detectors, in situ sample environments, and high-precision, motorized measuring apparatus.

You will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and installing the beamline infrastructure, instruments, environmental cells, and various components, including cryogenic and vacuum systems. There will also be opportunities to contribute to the wider operations of the Crystallography Science Group and participate in development projects.

Further Responsibilities

• Work on mechanical aspects of scientific instrumentation, including installation of motors and electrical sensors for vacuum, pneumatics, water flow, and temperature monitoring.
• Design and build simple mechanical devices.
• Assist Diamond scientists with user experiments.
• Conduct regular inspections of equipment to ensure safety compliance.
• Perform fault finding.

Some travel and out-of-hours work may be required.

About You

You will hold an ONC or GNVQ Level 2 (or equivalent) qualification or demonstrate equivalent work experience.

Knowledge and Experience

• Carrying out intricate mechanical and electrical assembly tasks.
• Interpreting mechanical drawings.
• Supervising and coordinating installation and commissioning of equipment.
• Machining, milling, and turning skills.
• Experience in at least one of the following areas: cryogenics, high temperatures, magnetic fields/high pressures, ultra-high vacuum, specialist gases, cooling water.

You should have good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work independently.

Benefits

Diamond offers an excellent benefits package, including 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, volunteering days, flexible working hours, a defined benefit pension scheme, and onsite amenities such as a nursery, cafes, a restaurant, and sports facilities. A relocation allowance may be available.

Application Process

Please apply online and tell us why you are suitable for this role. The closing date is 8th June.