Mechanical Engineer – Particle Accelerator

We have an opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer to join our Accelerator Design Group at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source based at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire. This role is a fantastic opportunity to lead and own engineering projects on accelerator equipment. You will also work closely and collaborate with leading scientists in the field and work on a breadth of accelerator technology.

About the role

Within this role, you will be working closely with fellow engineers and scientists to specify, design, develop and procure bespoke mechanical and electrical equipment for the particle accelerator.

You will be involved in full lifecycle engineering from concept to commissioning of one-off components and larger, complex systems. This will include mechanical engineering calculations and analysis, precision tolerancing and alignment and design for manufacturing. You will be responsible for project management and will coordinate the activities of various different technical disciplines to achieve the required end goal. You will produce mechanical designs and detailed drawings using 2D and 3D CAD, either as an individual or by managing the work of others.

As part of a design team you will be collaborating, negotiating and working within the team. You’ll make use of proven people management skills and will show an enthusiastic approach to work and achievement of goals. You will utilise an organised approach to problem solving in order to deliver working and high-quality solutions.

About you

You will be degree or HND qualified or hold equivalent experience in this field. You will have knowledge of fundamental mechanical engineering principles including correct materials required, an understanding of fluid mechanics and heat transfer. You will have experience within a mechanical design environment and reporting on the development of technically challenging engineering equipment. You will also have experience in performing engineering calculations and simulations.

In addition to the above, we are looking for someone with experience in managing projects and a project team. You will have excellent communication skills, particularly within collaborating, negotiating, networking and team building.

About us

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is one of Europe’s largest multi-disciplinary research organizations. Owned and operated by STFC, the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a world-leading centre for research in the physical and life sciences.

Through the use of a proton accelerator and a high-power target facility, ISIS Neutron and Muon Source produces beams of neutrons and muons that allow scientists to study materials at the atomic level using a suite of instruments, often described as ‘super-microscopes’. It supports a national and international community of more than 2000 scientists who use neutrons and muons for research in physics, chemistry, materials science, geology, engineering, and biology.

Working at the forefront of scientific endeavour isn’t possible without a dedicated team of engineers able to turn abstract scientific ideas into reality. At the ISIS facility each problem requires a unique solution, taking advantage of the latest technologies to deliver the seemingly impossible. Our engineers have the freedom to choose their own solution and the responsibility to take it to completion.

For more information on ISIS you may wish to view one of our videos https://player.vimeo.com/video/134620021.

Our benefits

As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), STFC offers a benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days’ annual leave, flexible working hours, a workplace nursery, exceptional pension scheme, social and sporting activities and societies and a subsidised restaurant.

How to apply

Applicants are required to submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for this role. Please ensure you showcase your skills in relation to the defined criteria. Early applications are encouraged, as candidates may be invited for interview ahead of the closing date.

Applications are handled by UK Shared Business Services, to apply please click the apply button. Applicants who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on +44 (0)1793 867000.

The closing date for applications is 15 November 2020.