At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and test cutting-edge instrumentation for defence and aerospace projects.
- Company: Join a fast-growing tech company on a mission to enhance global security.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, stock options, private medical, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming all backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience with technical equipment and a passion for learning.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
We are seeking a Test Technician specialising in instrumentation to support the setup and execution of testing across our defence and aerospace programmes. This is a practical, hands-on role focused on preparing sensors, instrumentation, data acquisition systems and test equipment to enable safe, accurate and repeatable testing. You will work closely with Test Engineers and wider engineering teams, supporting environmental, mechanical, electrical and system-level testing of complex aerospace products.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, install and verify instrumentation for engineering test activities, including thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges, load cells, pressure sensors and electrical measurement probes.
- Route, terminate, label and check instrumentation cables and wiring, carrying out continuity and basic electrical checks before testing.
- Configure data acquisition equipment, signal conditioning units and test equipment under the direction of Test Engineers.
- Support environmental, vibration, shock, thermal and system-level test campaigns, monitoring instrumentation and data quality throughout testing.
- Carry out basic fault-finding across sensors, cables, connectors and test equipment, identifying issues such as signal loss, noise, incorrect readings or damaged sensors.
- Capture, organise and maintain test data, equipment records, calibration information and repeatable laboratory test setups.
Requirements
- Practical experience working with technical equipment, instrumentation, electronics, testing or laboratory systems.
- Confidence using basic hand tools and electrical test equipment such as multimeters.
- Basic understanding of voltage, current, resistance and electrical continuity.
- Ability to follow wiring diagrams, test instructions, technical procedures and laboratory safety requirements.
- Methodical approach to fault-finding with strong attention to detail when connecting, labelling and recording equipment.
- Comfortable using computers to configure equipment, manage test data and produce clear and accurate test records.
Preferred Qualifications/Experience
- Experience with data acquisition systems, test instrumentation and sensors such as thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges, load cells or pressure sensors.
- Experience with crimping, soldering, cable preparation, wiring harnesses or electrical laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes and power supplies.
- Experience supporting vibration, shock, thermal, climatic or other environmental testing.
- Experience within aerospace, defence, automotive, motorsport, manufacturing, test house or other highly regulated engineering environments.
- Basic experience processing test data using Excel, MATLAB, Python or equivalent tools, alongside an awareness of calibration and equipment control processes.
- Experience in fast paced R&D or startup environments, with rapid prototype iteration times.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and stock options.
- Private Medical & Dental.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. If you are excited about this role but do not meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We are interested in your practical ability, potential and willingness to learn, not whether you have followed a traditional academic career path.
Test Technician - Instrumentation in Cambridge employer: Cambridge Aerospace
Cambridge Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the aerospace and defence sectors. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth through training and mentorship, ensuring that our team members can advance their careers while contributing to cutting-edge projects. Located in the vibrant city of Cambridge, employees enjoy a rich cultural scene and access to a network of industry leaders, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Technician - Instrumentation in Cambridge
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Test Technician - Instrumentation role you’re after at Cambridge Aerospace.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Cambridge Aerospace a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Cambridge Aerospace.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Test Technician - Instrumentation at Cambridge Aerospace, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Technician - Instrumentation in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Test Technician - Instrumentation, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Cambridge Aerospace a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Cambridge Aerospace specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Aerospace
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Cambridge Aerospace, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Cambridge Aerospace want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
