Job Description

Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire - - primarily based onsite
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 (Senior) Mechanical Technician (internally known as a (Senior) Vacuum Technician) to participate in the construction, conditioning, testing, commissioning, installation and maintenance of the Diamond vacuum systems and support equipment, for a 42-month fixed term contract.
This role will also play a part in our major multi-million-pound facility upgrade, known as Diamond-II, which will generate an even more brilliant light source at a higher energy.
You will be working within an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) clean assembly environment, undertaking vacuum inspection and acceptance testing of vacuum components and assisting and advising on the correct procedures and techniques for UHV installations and testing.
Further responsibilities will include:

• Preparing the equipment and areas for vacuum installations.
• Advising on the purchasing and procurement of equipment.
• Utilising the quality control and quality procedures of the Diamond project.
• Assisting with vacuum equipment and project Lab tests.
• Monitoring equipment maintenance requirements.

At the senior level will also supervise small teams for vacuum installation and maintenance tasks and take part in the planning and preparation of work including resource allocation for systems installations.
Applicants will be considered at either Mechanical Technician or Senior Mechanical Technician level, depending on the strength of your skills, experience and qualifications.
About You
You will be an experienced Technician or Engineer from a high technology environment with experience in assembly and operation of scientific vacuum equipment.
To be considered at the senior level you ideally will have served a recognised Engineering Apprenticeship or Engineering Degree or demonstrate equivalent on-the job experience.
Some knowledge or experience in any of the following areas will be beneficial:

• Leak detectors.
• Residual Gas Analysers.
• Quality Control Systems.
• Work and resource Planning.
• Safe Systems of work.
• Using cranes and slings, forklift trucks etc. for heavy lifting.
• Testing, fault finding and maintenance of electro-mechanical systems.
• Interpreting mechanical drawings.

Occasional travel will be required to our local storage warehouse facility.
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 advise which position you are applying for, or both.
The closing date for applications is 12th October.
Business Area
Technical/Engineering
Full Time Salary
32,363 - 34,429 (Discretionary range to 39,592), or 40,306 - 44,292 (Discretionary range to 50,936) for the Senior Level
Post Type
Full time / Fixed term
Term
Other (see advert)
Closing Date
12/10/2025

Skills Required