Graduate Engineer – (25P- 008) The Pirbright Institute
Permanent
We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.
Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; The Pirbright Institute (TPI) is offering an exciting opportunity for a newly graduated engineer to join our Estates Maintenance Services (EMS) department. This foundational role provides the successful candidate with the chance to gain valuable, practical experience across various aspects of Building Management Systems (BMS).
As a BMS Graduate Engineer, you will work within the EMS department, supporting the design, operation, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and maintenance of specialist plant control systems. The role offers opportunities to build proficiency in engineering containment management, with potential secondments to other areas of the Institute to further broaden your skill set. The BMS Graduate Engineer will report directly to the Operations Manager within Estates Management Services and will contribute to the resilience and succession planning of the Process and Operations Team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated graduate to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment, with the potential for career advancement.
You will develop knowledge and experience, working towards playing a pivotal role in supporting the Building Automation Control Systems (BACS) team responsible for monitoring and operating site critical plant and equipment, which will include:
Develop knowledge of key plant and equipment supporting high-containment biological research facilities to ensure compliance and operational continuity.
Support BMS installation, working with contractors to integrate new infrastructure and systems.
Assist with commissioning, ensuring BMS systems meet standards, perform efficiently, and are quality assured.
Help troubleshoot and maintain BMS systems, resolving issues and supporting reliable operation.
Gain cross-functional insight through short-term secondments with teams such as BMS Operations, Capital Projects, and Process Safety.
Build familiarity with compliance and specialist systems, applying methods like RCM and RCA to support data-driven maintenance strategies.
Working closely with EMS Process Safety team to become familiar with techniques such as Hazards and Operability (HAZOP), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA), What If & Structured What If Techniques (WI & SWIFT) or Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) etc, to determine equipment criticality to improve maintenance & reliability programs and maximise PPM effectiveness
Graduates ideally from/with a controls or systems engineering background.
Valid UK driving license.
Flexibility to work outside core office hours if required.
Experience of CAD, 3D modelling and Document Control packages.
Experience of Health and Safety, fire and other relevant legislation.
Able to work independently in project delivery.
Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
~25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.Buy and sell annual leave
~ Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
~ Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
~ Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
~ Cycle to work
~ Childcare allowance
~ Free onsite parking
~ Electric Car charging facilities