Mechanical Technician

As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement
at Diamond Light Source, Harwell, Oxfordshire

Diamond Light Source is one of the world’s most advanced scientific facilities. We’re home to the UK’s synchrotron light source – a giant microscope producing beams of light 10 billion times brighter than the sun. Probing the structure and composition of matter, our work drives innovation in everything from vaccines to nanotech.

At Diamond we are currently undertaking a major upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond-II. Diamond-II will combine a new machine and new beamlines with a comprehensive series of upgrades to optics, detectors, sample environments, sample delivery capabilities and computing, which will ultimately generate an even more brilliant light source at a higher energy.

We now have an opportunity for a Mechanical Technician within the Diamond Insertion Device group for a 2-year fixed term contract. Synchrotron insertion devices are permanent magnet assemblies which lie at the heart of the Diamond facility, generating the brilliant light that is used in experiments.

You will contribute to the mechanical assembly, testing, installation, maintenance and upgrading of insertion devices.

Further responsibilities will include:

• Carrying out inspection of manufactured items to drawings.
• Carrying out machining to drawings, design jigs and fixtures and manufacture where necessary.
• Assisting with the maintenance and upgrading of existing insertion devices.
• Carrying out general laboratory/workshop work as required.

Some flexibility over working hours will be required during periods of intense activity, and occasional local travel may be required.

You will hold an ONC or GNVQ level 2,or equivalent level qualification within engineering.

You will have an aptitude for practical mechanical work, ability to understand and interpret mechanical drawings and ability to carry out a variety of mechanical and electrical assembly tasks, including soldering.

You will have experience in at least one of the following areas:

• cryogenics, high temperatures, magnetic fields and/or high pressures, ultra high vacuum, specialist gases, cooling water.

You will demonstrate good communication and interpersonal skills, to interact with people at all levels.

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 with a 2.3% accrual rate. 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.