About the role
The post holder will provide high-quality technical support to teaching and research by enabling the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of mechanical systems and experimental equipment. Working closely with academic, research and technical colleagues, the role will ensure that student projects, research rigs and specialist laboratory equipment are produced to specification, function reliably and are delivered within agreed timescales. The post directly contributes to the effectiveness of departmental teaching and research by ensuring that complex mechanical components and assemblies are designed and manufactured to a high standard and are fit for purpose.
Working with a high degree of autonomy and technical expertise, the post holder will play a key role in the delivery of complex mechanical engineering projects, advising staff and students from initial concept through to final assembly and operation. This includes providing guidance on design for manufacture, materials selection and appropriate manufacturing processes, as well as producing components using manual and CNC machining techniques and supporting the assembly and maintenance of experimental equipment and laboratory rigs.
The role will also contribute to the safe and efficient operation of the mechanical workshop and associated laboratories. Although employed by the Chemistry Department, the post holder will be based within Mechanical Engineering and will work under the operational direction of the Mechanical Engineering Workshop Manager while maintaining professional accountability to the Chemistry Departmental Manager.
About you
We would be delighted to receive applications from candidates with a recognised engineering qualification such as an HND/HNC, Level 4 NVQ or a completed apprenticeship in a relevant discipline, alongside substantial post-qualification experience in a mechanical engineering or technical manufacturing environment. You will bring significant technical knowledge of design and manufacturing engineering, with extensive experience of precision machining using a wide range of tools and materials and a strong attention to detail.
You should have advanced experience using 3D CAD software (such as CATIA or equivalent) and strong capability in CAD and CAM environments, including CNC programming and operating conversational machine controls. Experience producing bespoke, one-off components and contributing creative solutions to complex technical challenges is essential.
You will also have a thorough understanding of workplace health and safety practices, including risk assessments, and be willing to undertake relevant training. Strong communication skills, a positive and collaborative approach, and the ability to prioritise workloads while supporting and guiding students and colleagues are important for success in this role.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:
1. 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
2. Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
3. Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
4. Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
5. Immigration loan
6. Relocation scheme for certain posts
7. On-Site nursery
8. On-site gym
9. Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
10. Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
11. Discounted medical insurance