Mechanical Technician (RF Systems) – Oxfordshire
Salary: up to £37,500 + Pension + Relocation Allowance
We are a leading scientific research and technology facility looking to appoint a Mechanical Technician to support the operation, installation and maintenance of specialist RF and cryogenic systems.
As part of the RF Group you will provide hands‑on mechanical support for a range of specialist equipment including cryogenic plant, vacuum cryostat assemblies, high‑power amplifiers, RF transmission lines and associated infrastructure. The role offers a unique opportunity to work with advanced technologies while contributing to the safe and reliable operation of highly specialised systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Support day‑to‑day mechanical operation and maintenance of the RF Group infrastructure.
- Assist with the installation, assembly and commissioning of new RF systems and associated equipment.
- Support the operation and maintenance of helium refrigeration plant, cryostats and ancillary cryogenic systems.
- Provide basic electrical support for RF Group equipment where required.
- Liaise with engineering, technical and operational teams to safely deliver maintenance and operational activities.
- Assist in preparing risk assessments, method statements and safe systems of work.
- Carry out routine inspections of installed equipment and report findings.
- Participate in Health & Safety and Quality Assurance activities in accordance with company procedures.
- Support the management of spare parts inventory, identify stock requirements and source suitable components.
- Assist with a variety of small engineering and maintenance projects.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of equipment reliability and operational performance.
Key Skills and Experience
- Practical mechanical engineering or technician background in an industrial, scientific, manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Experience supporting the installation, assembly, maintenance or operation of complex mechanical systems.
- Ability to work safely on a variety of technical equipment and infrastructure.
- Understanding of mechanical assembly, maintenance and fault‑finding techniques.
- Good communication skills with the ability to work effectively across departments and technical teams.
- Experience of working within structured Health & Safety procedures and quality standards.
- Ability to manage workload effectively and support multiple activities simultaneously.
Desirable Experience
- Experience working with cryogenic systems, vacuum systems or refrigeration equipment.
- Exposure to RF systems, high‑power electrical equipment or scientific research environments.
- Basic electrical maintenance or installation experience.
- Knowledge of engineering spares management and maintenance planning activities.
Working Environment and Opportunities
- Opportunity to work within a world‑class scientific and engineering facility.
- Exposure to highly specialised RF, cryogenic and vacuum technologies.
- Collaborative environment working alongside experienced scientists, engineers and technicians.
- Involvement in the installation and commissioning of new advanced technical systems.
- Excellent opportunities for technical development.
- Occasional UK travel and overnight stays as required.
- Occasional shift work during commissioning activities and operational support periods.
This position is ideal for a hands‑on Mechanical Technician looking to develop their career within a highly advanced engineering environment, supporting cutting‑edge RF and cryogenic systems that enable world‑leading scientific research.
