Job Description

Based onsite - Diamond Light Source, Harwell, Oxfordshire

About Us

Diamond Light Source is the UK's national synchrotron; a huge scientific facility designed to produce very intense beams of X-rays, infrared and ultraviolet light. Our scientists use the light to study a vast range of subject matter, from new medicines and treatments for disease to innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology.

About the Role

We now have an opportunity for a Mechanical Beamline Technician or a Senior Beamline Technician to maintain and support the operational and scientific research activities of our I15-1 beamline, which performs experiments to study the local structure of materials from a vast range of scientific fields such as catalysis, energy materials, and pharmaceuticals. Experiments are performed under a wide range of ambient and non-ambient conditions through the use of bespoke detectors, in situ sample environments and high-precision, motorised measuring apparatus.





You will be responsible for the ongoing development, maintenance and installation of the beamline infrastructure, its instruments and environmental cells, various moving and static components, and cryogenic and vacuum systems. You will also have opportunities to contribute to the wider operations of the Crystallography Science Group, which comprises of three additional beamlines, and get involved with development projects within the group.





Further responsibilities will include:


Work on mechanical aspects of the scientific instrumentation including installation of motors and electrical sensors for items such as vacuum, pneumatics, water flow and temperature monitoring. Designing and building of simple mechanical devices. Assisting Diamond scientists with user experiments. Carry out regular inspection of installed equipment to comply with safety regulations. Undertake fault finding.




Some travel may be required on occasions, as well as occasional out of hours working when required.

About You

You will hold a ONC or GNVQ level 2 (or equivalent) qualification or demonstrate equivalent work experience.





You will demonstrate knowledge and experience of:


Carrying out a variety of intricate mechanical and electrical assembly tasks Interpreting mechanical drawings Supervising and coordinate the installation and commissioning of equipment Machining, milling and turning




In addition, for the Senior Beamline Technician role:


Experience of Technical Support in a synchrotron or equivalent facility Familiarity with using quality assurance procedures, work planning and safe systems of work




With experience in at least one of the following areas (two for the Senior Beamline Technician role):


Cryogenics Precision mechanics High temperatures Ultra-high vacuum Specialist gases PSSR Cooling water




You will display good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to plan and work unsupervised.

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.

To Apply

Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. Please include in your application which of the advertised roles you are applying for.

The closing date for applications is 31st August.