Optical Cleanroom Manager | Guildford | Competitive salary + strong package
Are you an experienced professional with a passion for managing high-tech engineering / cleanroom laboratory environments? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, cutting-edge industry where precision and organisation are key? Do you want to support on the development of world-leading Optical Payloads for space and satellite missions?
Then this might be the role for you!
As a key member of the Optical team, you’ll be responsible for the efficient running of a dedicated Optical Cleanroom Facility. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative aerospace environment where your expertise will support the development and delivery of advanced spacecraft payloads.
Key Responsibilities
* Ensure the day-to-day operational running of the Optical Cleanroom Facility, including setting up and operating associated equipment and hand tools, and keeping the facility stocked with necessary consumables and garments.
* Troubleshoot issues with equipment, co-ordinate with manufacturers and service centres for timely repairs, and minimise equipment downtime.
* Track calibration schedules and dispatch equipment to appropriate service providers as needed.
* Ensure the cleanroom facility complies with health & safety, environmental and quality standards, taking ownership of relevant risk assessments and COSHH documentation.
* Induct and train facility users in cleanroom protocols and safe working practices, ensuring ongoing adherence and accountability to maintain cleanliness and safety standards.
* Support the Optical AIV Manager in developing and maintaining procedures, including parts cleaning, material handling, and general assembly tasks.
* Liaise with the internal Facilities team to arrange access for maintenance, IT services, and scheduled cleaning of the cleanroom.
* Monitor and manage usage of cleanroom equipment across projects, resolving scheduling conflicts and ensuring smooth operations.
* Participate as needed in the delivery of optical payloads – including cleaning/inspecting parts, supporting AIV engineers with critical builds, operating specialist equipment (e.g. TVAC, CMM, Ultrasonic Cleaners, optical measurement tools), and helping to handle and transport flight items within and between cleanroom areas.
* Organise and support external testing, including logistics for offsite activities.
Experience & Knowledge:
* Experience working within a cleanroom environment, ideally in a Laboratory Manager, Cleanroom Manager or Calibration Manager role or similar.
* Familiarity with sensitive hardware handling, ideally optical or spaceflight-related.
* Knowledge of test and measurement equipment such as TVAC, CMM, and optical tools.
* Experience with COSHH, lifting equipment, pressure systems, and gas safety regulations.
* Competence in maintaining risk assessments and managing laboratory equipment maintenance or repair.
* Proven coordination with external suppliers and service providers.
Qualifications & Skills:
* Degree in an engineering or scientific discipline preferred; relevant experience in a similar role will also be considered.
* Certifications or training in lifting/handling equipment (cranes, forklifts, pallet trucks) desirable.
* Experience operating a Thermal Vacuum Chamber would be a big benefit, but not essential
* Strong hands-on technical skills, including use of hand tools and measuring equipment.
* Excellent planning, organisation, and communication skills.
* Proactive mindset with high attention to detail.
* Knowledge of quality management principles.
* Problem-solver who thrives under pressure and meets tight deadlines.
* Comfortable collaborating across teams and working independently.
* Must hold, or be willing to undergo, National Security Vetting (NSV) for SC clearance.
What’s in it for you?
* Highly competitive salary.
* Flexible working policies.
* 32 days annual leave + bank holidays.
* Annual Company Bonus Scheme.
* Up to 8% employer pension contribution.
* Life Assurance (6X salary).
* Private Health Care.
* Enhanced Maternity & Paternity leave.
* Multiple discount and membership schemes.
Location
* This role is based fully onsite in Guildford, with flexible working options available.
Key words:
Cleanroom Manager, Laboratory Manager, Calibration Manager, Optics, Optical Payload, Space, Satellite, TVAC, COSHH, Health and Safety, Thermal Vacuum Chamber, optical tools, Electronic Laboratory, Space optics, Remote Sensing Instruments