Mechanical Engineering Workshop Technician (Department of Physics)

Location:	London
Salary:	£45,700 to £55,240 per annum
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Permanent

Placed On:	27th September 2024
Closes:	3rd November 2024
Job Ref:	NAT01733

Mechanical Engineering Workshop Technician (Department of Physics)
Overview:

Imperial College London's Department of Physics is seeking a skilled and highly motivated Mechanical Engineering Workshop Technician to play a crucial role in supporting both research and teaching activities. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced technician with a strong background in mechanical engineering, precision manufacturing, and CNC programming to join a dynamic team and contribute to cutting-edge scientific research.

As a core member of the workshop team, you will be responsible for designing, manufacturing, and assembling complex, high-precision components that are essential to the success of both the department's research groups and its teaching laboratories. The role will involve working with a variety of materials and technologies to create custom solutions for research projects and experiments, as well as supporting the assembly, installation, and commissioning of specialized equipment. You will be instrumental in ensuring that the department's research equipment is maintained and functioning at the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Precision Design and Manufacturing: You will play a key role in the design and manufacture of intricate, high-precision components to support a wide range of research and teaching activities. This involves working closely with academic and research staff to understand their requirements and translating these into high-quality, functional components. These parts will often be created from a variety of materials, requiring a deep understanding of mechanical properties and manufacturing techniques.

• Use of Manual and CNC Machines: In this role, you will operate both manual and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines to fabricate components to precise specifications. This will require extensive knowledge of machining techniques, as well as the ability to program CNC machines to perform complex operations with a high degree of accuracy and repeatability.

• Collaboration with Research Teams: You will collaborate with various research groups within the Department of Physics, providing expert advice on the design, manufacturing, and assembly of experimental apparatus. You will contribute to the development of highly specialized research equipment, ensuring that the components meet the exacting requirements of cutting-edge scientific experiments.

• Assembly, Installation, and Commissioning: Beyond design and fabrication, you will also be involved in the assembly, installation, and commissioning of complex mechanical systems. This may include working on experimental rigs, precision instrumentation, and bespoke laboratory setups, ensuring they are fully operational and meet the department's high standards.

• Maintenance and Repair: As part of your role, you will be responsible for the maintenance and repair of research equipment, ensuring that it continues to function reliably and accurately. This will involve diagnosing issues, performing repairs, and implementing preventative maintenance strategies to minimize downtime and ensure the longevity of equipment.

• Project Management: You will be expected to manage multiple projects simultaneously, working to strict deadlines while maintaining the highest quality standards. This requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

• Workshop Practices and Safety: You will uphold and promote the best mechanical workshop practices, ensuring that the workshop remains a safe, organized, and efficient environment for all users. You will be responsible for maintaining and calibrating workshop instrumentation and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

Essential Criteria:

To be successful in this role, you must meet the following essential criteria:

• Qualifications: You should be educated to at least BTEC HNC level or possess an equivalent qualification in a relevant engineering field. Completion of a recognized engineering apprenticeship training scheme is also required.

• Mechanical Engineering Experience: You should have significant experience in mechanical engineering, particularly within a workshop environment, preferably in a research or engineering development setting. Your experience should include designing, fabricating, and assembling complex, high-precision components.

• Complex Mechanical Systems: You should have a proven track record of working on the design, construction, and maintenance of complex mechanical systems and high-precision components. This requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to solve complex engineering challenges.

• Workshop Knowledge: You must have a deep understanding of mechanical workshop practices, including the use of both manual and CNC machines. Experience in CNC programming and the ability to work to a high level of accuracy and quality is essential.

• Maintenance and Repair: Experience in the maintenance and repair of research equipment is vital for this role. You should be able to diagnose faults, perform repairs, and implement preventative maintenance plans to ensure equipment reliability.

Why Join Imperial College London?

Imperial College London is one of the world’s leading universities, renowned for its excellence in research, education, and innovation. The Department of Physics is at the forefront of scientific discovery, contributing to major breakthroughs in fields such as quantum mechanics, particle physics, and materials science. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking research projects and support the development of new technologies that have the potential to change the world.

As part of a highly skilled and experienced workshop team, you will collaborate with world-class researchers and academics, gaining exposure to a wide variety of scientific disciplines and cutting-edge technologies. Your work will directly contribute to the success of research that addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing society today.

Working Environment:

At Imperial College London, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive working environment where all staff can thrive. The Department of Physics fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, and you will be encouraged to contribute your ideas and expertise to improve workshop practices and processes.

We are committed to providing opportunities for professional development, and you will have access to training and resources that will help you stay at the forefront of your field. As a member of the workshop team, you will also play a key role in mentoring and supporting junior staff, apprentices, and students.

Application Process:

This role is a re-advertisement; if you have applied previously, there is no need to apply again.

To apply for this position, please submit the following:

• A completed application form.

• An up-to-date CV detailing your qualifications, experience, and any relevant skills.

• Any additional supporting documents that you feel are relevant to your application.

If you have any queries about the role or the application process, please contact:

• Martin Kehoe (Workshop Manager): m.kehoe@imperial.ac.uk – For specific role-related queries.

• Judith Baylis (HR Team): j.baylis@imperial.ac.uk – For queries regarding the application process.

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