Technical Instructor in Advanced Composite Material Technology and Manufacturing

University of Derby; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK educational institution is seeking a skilled Technical Support professional to assist with material technology and testing processes. You will manage day-to-day operations in labs, ensuring safety compliance, training users, and maintaining equipment. Candidates should have a degree or equivalent experience and significant expertise in composite materials and related technologies. Benefits include generous leave, a pension scheme, and a commitment to personal development.

Benefits

38 days annual leave

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts

Discounted onsite gym

Cycle to Work scheme

Flexible working environment

Qualifications

• Significant technical experience in composite material technology.
• Proficient in operating and maintaining composite manufacturing equipment.
• Strong understanding of lab and workshop health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for research and teaching activities.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Train, setup equipment, and supervise students in labs.

Skills

Composite material technology

Health and safety compliance

Equipment maintenance

Education

Degree in a related discipline or comparable experience

Tools

Autoclaves

Resin transfer moulding systems

Material testing apparatus

Job description

Overview

Here at the University of Derby, the College of Science and Engineering is the home STEM, the skills that are essential to the UK's Industrial Strategy. From digitisation to decarbonisation, we have an important role to play in shaping the future. And by researching or collaborating with us, you can too.

The College brings together a powerful combination of scientific expertise, technological innovation, and creative practice. With disciplines spanning computing, AI, Data Science, engineering, environmental sciences, built environments and Psychology. We are uniquely positioned to solve real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Our courses are designed with employability and future industry needs in mind, supported by cutting-edge facilities, strong employer partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability. Through applied research and hands-on learning, we equip students and staff to drive progress in areas that matter most; from smart technology to clean energy, advanced manufacturing to immersive design.

Technical Services

Technical Services at the University of Derby underpins the key activities of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and innovation. As an applied University we value the importance of practical work and experimental learning. Our highly skilled Technicians from across all areas of the organisation play a vital part in delivering the very best student experience, developing research activity and contributing to innovation. Central to the success of our Technical Service is collaboration, teamwork and knowledge sharing.

About the Role

You will provide technical support for research and teaching activities related to material technology and testing processes within the College of Science and Engineering.

As a member of our technical team, you will be responsible for day-to-day operations which include training, equipment setup, and supervising students in the labs. You will ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, order consumables and equipment, and organise the disposal of hazardous waste. Additionally, you will liaise with suppliers and service engineers to maintain and service laboratory equipment.

Working closely with academics and members of technical team you will provide specialist support relating to research and teaching activities, working across several laboratories with a high degree of autonomy. You will be able to provide full technical support to students and staff including training and advice on the appropriate use of resources.

You should hold qualification(s) equivalent to a degree in a related discipline or comparable knowledge and transferable skills gained through professional experience.

The ideal candidate will have significant specialist technical experience in composite material technology, preferably gained within industry, research or educational setting. You will be proficient in operating and maintaining composite manufacturing equipment, such as autoclaves, resin transfer moulding systems, plus material testing apparatus. A strong understanding of laboratory and workshop health and safety regulations, including risk assessments and best practices, is required.

Safeguarding

The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 38 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers
• Discounted onsite gym
• Cycle to Work scheme
• A flexible working environment
• A commitment to personal and professional development