R&D Electromechanical Technician

Rapiscan Systems; Stoke-on-Trent; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading detection technology firm in Stoke-on-Trent is seeking a technician for their Cargo Research Team. The ideal candidate will have experience with electromechanical systems, PLC programming, and troubleshooting. You will support hardware testing and validation, ensuring optimal system performance. This role provides an opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Strong background in electrical and mechanical systems.
• Hands-on experience in PLCs and industrial control systems.
• Experience with SCADA systems and automation protocols.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, install, and test electromechanical components and systems.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on machinery.
• Diagnose faults in electrical and mechanical systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and modify PLC-based control systems.
• Document maintenance activities and test results.

Skills

PLC programming

Electromechanical assembly

Troubleshooting

Diagnosing electrical/mechanical faults

Reading blueprints

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Electromechanical Engineering

Tools

Diagnostic tools

SCADA systems

HMI interfaces

Job description

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, helping customers find threats and contraband with ease and confidence.

Role Overview

To work within the Cargo Research Team, supporting efforts to bring design concepts and prototypes to reality with hardware testing, verification, and validation in the X-ray Imaging Laboratory. You will be responsible for assembling, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing complex electromechanical systems and equipment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in both electrical and mechanical systems, with hands-on experience in PLCs and industrial control systems.

Responsibilities

1. Assemble, install, and test electromechanical components and systems (e.g., motors, actuators, sensors, control panels).
2. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on machinery and automated systems.
3. Diagnose faults in electrical and mechanical systems using diagnostic tools and schematics.
4. Calibrate and align mechanical and electrical components to ensure optimal performance.
5. Read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
6. Program, troubleshoot, and modify PLC-based control systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
7. Maintain and update HMI interfaces and support integration with SCADA systems.
8. Assist in the design and implementation of control logic for automated machinery.
9. Perform I/O checks, loop testing, and commissioning of control systems.
10. Collaborate with engineers and production teams to support system upgrades and continuous improvement.
11. Document maintenance activities, test results, and system modifications.
12. Support, as and when required, wider company efforts in production, engineering, and commissioning to assist with FATs and customer demonstrations.
13. NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Electromechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
14. Proven experience in electromechanical assembly, maintenance, or repair.
15. Hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting.
16. Strong understanding of electrical circuits, mechanical systems, and control technologies.
17. Preferred: Experience with SCADA systems, industrial networking, and automation protocols.
18. 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) certification.
19. Familiarity with robotics, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
20. Knowledge of lean manufacturing or ISO 9001 environments.

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