Optical Cleanroom Laboratory Manager

Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.; Guildford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the aerospace sector is seeking a Cleanroom Laboratory Manager to oversee the Optical Cleanroom Facility. This role involves ensuring operational efficiency, compliance with safety standards, and managing equipment. Ideal candidates will have relevant cleanroom experience and a degree in engineering or science. Join a flexible and innovative team dedicated to the development of next-generation optical payloads for spacecraft.

Qualifications

• Experience in a cleanroom environment with sensitive hardware.
• Training in lifting and handling equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure operational running of the Optical Cleanroom Facility.
• Maintain compliance with health and safety and quality standards.
• Coordinate with external suppliers for servicing and maintenance.

Skills

Problem Solving

Communication

Planning

Teamwork

Education

Degree in engineering or science discipline

Tools

Thermal Vacuum Chamber

Coordinate Measuring Machine

Job description

Key Purpose of Job

The Optical Team seeks a Cleanroom Laboratory Manager to ensure the efficient running of SSTL’s Optical Cleanroom Facility to aid in the development and delivery of the next generation of Optical Payloads for SSTL’s spacecraft. This will involve being responsible for the cleanroom and associated equipment.

Key Tasks

• Ensure the operational running of an Optical Cleanroom Facility, including the setting up and operating of associated equipment & hand tools, and keeping the facility stocked with commonly used consumables and garments.
• Troubleshoot and co-ordinate with manufacturers and service centres to minimise downtime in operation of equipment including any necessary repair.
• Keep track of items due for calibration, and dispatch accordingly to appropriate service company.
• Ensure that the cleanroom facility complies with all relevant health and safety, environmental and quality standards, including the ownership of associated risk assessments and appropriate COSHH documentation as required for substances used in the optical facility.
• Ensure users of the facility are given appropriate induction, and where necessary training, in the acceptable and safe working practices of the optical cleanroom; monitoring and enforcing these practices, and holding users accountable, is key in order to maintain the cleanliness standards of the room and the safety of the users.
• Aid the Optical AIV (Assembly, Integration, Verification) Manager with maintaining and developing processes (e.g. parts cleaning, material handling, common build activity instructions).
• Co-ordinate with the SSTL facilities team to allow access and supervision over maintenance, IT services, and cleaning of the cleanroom.
• Maintain awareness of current project use of optical cleanroom equipment, and where possible solve conflicts through alternate solutions/arrangements.
• Occasional participation in the delivery of optical payloads including but not limited to:
• Cleaning and inspecting of mechanical parts for optical systems.
• Supporting the Lead Optical AIV (Assembly, Integration, Verification) Engineer in critical build activities.
• Operation and support in the use of equipment such as: Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC), Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), Ultrasonic Cleaners, and assortment of optical measurement devices (e.g. Theodolites and Autocollimators).
• Organise and support the use of external testing facilities, including booking, transportation and off-site setup.
• Aiding in the handling and transporting of flight items within, and between working areas.

Previous Experience

• Relevant experience working within a cleanroom environment.
• Experience working with sensitive hardware, ideally optics or spaceflight hardware.
• Experience with test and measurement equipment, e.g. Thermal Vacuum Chamber, Coordinate Measuring Machine, etc.
• Maintaining risk assessments within a manufacturing environment.
• Working with COSHH, Lifting Equipment, Pressure Systems and Gas Safety Regulations.
• Co-ordinating with external suppliers (requesting quotes for servicing, arranging visits of service providers, etc.).
• Responsibility over maintenance and potentially repair of lab equipment.

Qualifications Knowledge & Skills

• Degree in engineering or science discipline preferred, although proven experience in a similar role will be considered.
• Previous training or qualifications in the use of lifting and handling equipment (Cranes, forklifts, pallet trucks, etc.).
• Practical and hands-on abilities, including use of hand tools and measuring equipment.
• Self-motivated, creative, high attention to detail.
• Knowledge of Quality Management mechanisms.
• Good planning & organisation.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Results orientated, can-do approach.
• Pro-active and able to take initiative.
• Decision making and creative problem-solving skills.
• Highly organised with clear communication skills.
• Proven ability to deliver solutions under pressure and to tight timescales.
• Good team working skills, together with the ability to interface with others at all levels.
• Able to demonstrate company mindsets; accountability, one team, drive & delivery, self-manage effectively, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to operate a Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC) would be beneficial, but not required; must have a willingness to learn to operate it.
• Must hold, or be willing to undergo, National Security Vetting (NSV) for SC clearance.

Location

SSTL prides itself on being a super flexible company. The role is based in our Head Office in Guildford.