Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing

University of Southampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is seeking a Senior Technician to support the Optoelectronics Research Centre's research on advanced optoelectronic devices. The role involves operating high-tech equipment and collaborating with researchers and industry to translate innovations for the photonics sector. Candidates should have a relevant qualification and hands-on experience in laboratory work. Salary ranges from £36,130 to £44,128 per annum.

Qualifications

• Qualification equivalent to HND, Degree, NVQ4 or similar with relevant experience.
• Practical, hands-on experience in manufacturing and cleanroom fabrication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain fabrication and characterisation equipment.
• Contribute in advanced laser laboratories and other facilities.
• Create high-performance optical components for research goals.

Skills

Laboratory work

Manufacturing

Communication skills

Education

HND, Degree, NVQ4 or similar

Tools

Cleanroom instruments

Polishing systems

Material analysis tools

Job description

Overview

Full Time Fixed Term until 31/07/2028

Join Our Team – Senior Technician Opportunity at the Optoelectronics Research Centre

We are excited to invite applications for a Senior Technician to support our welcoming and collaborative team of world-leading researchers at the Optelelectronics Research Centre (ORC), University of Southampton. With over 300 staff and students, the ORC is an internationally recognised hub for cutting-edge research, delivering real-world impact across manufacturing, communication technologies, augmented reality, healthcare, renewable energy, and environmental solutions.

About the Role

As a valued member of our team, you will play a key role in the development and production of advanced optoelectronic devices for applications such as quantum technologies, integrated optical sensors, and laser optics. You’ll be supporting a wide range of fabrication and characterisation activities, working side-by-side with researchers on academic and industrial projects that aim to scale up manufacturing processes for wider adoption. A core part of this role will involve close collaboration with industry to help translate our research into tangible innovations for the UK’s growing photonics sector.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation equipment, including ultra-precision tools, polishing systems, cleanroom instruments, and material analysis tools.
• Contribute in advanced laser laboratories and other university facilities.
• Ensure attention to detail and a commitment to excellence to help create high-performance optical components that advance research goals and commercial partnerships.

Who We’re Looking For

• A qualification equivalent to an HND, Degree, NVQ4 or similar, with relevant experience.
• Practical, hands-on experience in laboratory work, manufacturing, cleanroom fabrication, or the assembly of optical components and systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with a willingness to contribute to a supportive team environment.
• Strong communication and mentoring skills to train and support researchers and PhD students.

Appointment Details

The initial appointment is based on a fixed term post until 31/07/2028, ideally starting in August 2025.

Enquiries

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Prof James Gates
gates at southampton dot ac dot uk

Working at the University

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton!

Salary: £36,130 to £44,128 per annum