Research Specialist/Engineer

Victoria University of Wellington; Lower Hutt; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Victoria University of Wellington’s Paihau - Robinson Research Institute is seeking a Research Specialist/Engineer to help translate research concepts into practical engineering solutions, spanning electrical, electromagnetic and mechanical systems.

You will work with leading scientists and engineers to design, develop, manufacture, and test technologies in superconducting systems, advanced materials, and other high-impact research programs in a world-class environment.

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in mechanical design and engineering.
• Strong CAD capability, preferably SOLIDWORKS.
• Experience in manufacturing, production engineering, or prototype development.
• Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles.
• Experience with engineering analysis and problem-solving.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA).

Responsibilities

• Support the design, manufacture, integration, and testing of electrical, electromagnetic, and mechanical systems.
• Contribute to development of advanced engineering solutions for superconducting and cryogenic technologies.
• Liaise with external suppliers, contractors, and manufacturing partners.
• Provide practical engineering input into research equipment, prototypes, and experimental systems.
• Develop and assemble experimental test rigs and undertake testing and validation activities.
• Provide technical advice and support across a diverse portfolio of projects.
• Mentor and provide guidance to staff and students.
• Contribute to maintenance and operation of specialised research infrastructure.

Skills

Mechanical design

Prototyping

Manufacturing

FEA

Engineering analysis

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SOLIDWORKS

Job description

Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s globally ranked capital city university and one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious tertiary institutions with a proud tradition of academic excellence.Our...

• Have you got demonstrated experience in mechanical design and engineering?
• Can you work collaboratively in a complex, multidisciplinary research environment?
• Do you have a tertiary qualification in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline?

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is seeking a talented and motivated Research Specialist/Engineer to join the Paihau - Robinson Research Institute on a permanent, full-time basis.

Paihau - Robinson Research Institute is New Zealand's leading centre for superconducting technology, advanced materials, and applied engineering research. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your engineering expertise in a world-class research environment. Working alongside leading scientists and engineers, you will contribute to the design, development, manufacture, and testing of innovative technologies spanning advanced manufacturing, superconducting systems, aerospace applications, energy technologies, and other high-impact research programmes.

As a Research Specialist/Engineer, you will play a key role in translating research concepts into practical engineering solutions, supporting projects from early-stage development through to prototype delivery and commercial application.

Key responsibilities:

• Support the design, manufacture, integration, and testing of electrical, electromagnetic, and mechanical systems.
• Contribute to the development of advanced engineering solutions for superconducting and cryogenic technologies.
• Liaise with external suppliers, contractors, and manufacturing partners.
• Provide practical engineering input into research equipment, prototypes, and experimental systems.
• Develop and assemble experimental test rigs and undertake testing and validation activities.
• Provide technical advice and support across a diverse portfolio of projects.
• Mentor and provide guidance to staff and students.
• Contribute to the maintenance and operation of specialised research infrastructure.

We're looking for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and working collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

You will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in mechanical design and engineering.
• Strong CAD capability, preferably SOLIDWORKS.
• Experience in manufacturing, production engineering, or prototype development.
• Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles.
• Experience with engineering analysis and problem-solving.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA).
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Ideally you will also have experience in:

• Cryogenic systems or superconducting technologies.
• Vacuum systems and associated equipment.
• CNC machining and manufacturing processes.
• CAD/CAM software and workflows.
• Electrical systems integration.
• Aerospace, energy, or advanced manufacturing applications.
• Registration with the New Zealand Electrical Workers Registration Board.

Close date for vacancy: 18 September 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Jeannie Redman, Institute Operations Manager ([e-mail]).

We can only consider applicants who are citizens or residents of New Zealand or Australia or on a current working visa. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date. Applications from recruitment agencies are not accepted.

About Us

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.