Job overview
We are looking for an applicant with good mechanical workshop skills and a positive, flexible attitude to join our team. The Rehabilitation Engineering Department provides technical support for wheelchair and seating services across Oxfordshire. The post holder will manufacture, set up and maintain custom contour seating, wheelchair accessories and related components, and support the Rehabilitation Engineers and clinical teams.
Main duties of the job
* Manufacture custom contour seating and wheelchair accessories in milled foam and Lynx sheet, following engineers’ drawings or instructions.
* Produce parts and components for stock as requested and maintain local components stock.
* Use hand and power tools in a mechanical workshop setting.
* Receive training on specific manufacturing processes and techniques.
* Support the Rehabilitation Engineering team with technical work in clinics, equipment set‑up, and transport to and from clinics.
Working for our organisation
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest NHS teaching trusts in the country, offering a wide range of general and specialist clinical services. Our values focus on Compassionate Excellence, aiming to deliver care with compassion, respect and continuous improvement.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
* Comply with all health and safety requirements.
* Manufacture custom contour seating from Lynx and foam, and manufacture components for mobile arm supports.
* Maintain and monitor workshop stock levels, communicating with stores to ensure adequate supplies and highlighting issues.
* Source suppliers for parts and components.
* Manufacture and assemble components and parts for stock using mechanical workshop skills.
* Maintain and repair casting bags; produce patterns for upholstery outsourced to external companies.
* Communicate effectively with team members and external suppliers regarding technical information.
* Use a range of sewing machines and hand techniques for upholstery work.
* Assist team members in clinics with technical work, equipment set‑up, and transporting equipment between clinics and vans.
* Set up seating and accessories on wheelchairs in accordance with engineers’ instructions.
* Document work and contribute to technical files and patient records.
* Operate CNC machine to manufacture custom contoured seating, including tool‑path setup, foam block handling, and machine cleaning.
* Contribute to servicing and maintenance of equipment; manage a schedule of work and appointment diary.
* Assemble, manufacture and repair mechanical devices with precision workshop machinery.
* Engage in multi‑disciplinary teams, discussing input around client needs and technical support.
* Understand disability conditions and their implications on equipment prescription.
* Attend and contribute to in‑service training; work in awkward positions and maintain concentration under noise and dust exposure.
* Complete CAD drawings (Fusion 360).
* Other roles as appropriate at this level.
Person specification
Qualifications
* Grade C or above English and Maths GCSEs.
* NVQ Level 2 Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical engineering training.
* Mechanical Engineering Qualification (BTEC Level 2).
Experience
* Skilled in using mechanical workshop equipment independently.
* Proficient with hand‑held power tools independently.
* Practical problem‑solving approach.
* Ability to manufacture or assemble components to tight deadlines.
* Experience working with people with disabilities.
* Understanding of disability issues.
* Competence in manufacturing foam and Lynx seating systems.
* Knowledge of wheelchairs and seating components.
Personal Skills
* Self‑motivated and able to work independently on own initiative.
* Willingness to learn new skills.
* Methodical and thorough approach to work.
* Self‑organised.
* Able to work under pressure.
* Able to follow instructions from other team members.
* Physically able to assist in moving and positioning people and equipment.
Behavioural Skills
* Prepared to adjust working hours to suit clinics.
* Methodical and thorough approach to work activities.
* Self‑organised.
Technical Skills
* Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
* Experience in CAD/CAM systems.
COVID‑19
The COVID‑19 vaccination remains encouraged. Vaccination is not a condition of employment, but staff are advised to get vaccinated.
Vacancy Closures
This vacancy may close early if a high volume of applications is received.
Probation Period
This post is subject to a 6‑month probationary period, unless you are already employed by the Trust.
Referencing
Please provide accurate work‑related email addresses for reference. The first referee should be your line manager, supervisor or clinical lead from your current or most recent post.
Next Steps
Read the job description and person specification carefully. Applicants who meet the criteria will be shortlisted for interview within 2 weeks. Email correspondence will occur via the e‑recruitment system.
Contact
Contact Zoe Hadley, Rehabilitation Engineering team lead. Email: zoe.hadley@ouh.nhs.uk Phone: 01865227732
Departments and services
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