Mechanical Maintenance Technician

The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks. We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a 'one Institute' approach.

Organisation Position And Purpose:

Based on the Pirbright site carrying out planned preventative and reactive maintenance activities, including operation and maintenance (to competency level) we are looking for a Mechanical Technician of building services and process plant, including high containment HEPA filtered HVAC systems, high containment drainage and effluent treatment plants/equipment, standard building services including gases, water, compressed air, steam/condense and refrigerated systems.

As a Mechanical Technician, you will be working within a team of three, reporting into the Lead Mechanical Technician. Although you will be working within a team, there will be times that you could be required to perform duties on a solo basis as well as participate in ‘duty on call rota’ to provide out of hours reactive maintenance response. The Mechanical Maintenance team is made up of six Technicians and three Lead Technicians, operating in teams of three to execute day-to-day jobs raised within the Pirbright Institute’s properties.

You will be responsible for a blend of duties such as Mechanical Systems Maintenance, documentation and reporting, as well as other duties directed by your Line Manager.

Accountability, Responsibility And Duties:

• Mechanical Systems Maintenance: Conduct and complete routine maintenance on mechanical systems and equipment within SLA’s. Troubleshooting and resolving mechanical issues. Participation in the Institutes Health, Safety & Risk programs including risk assessment of planned maintenance activities and 'on the spot' risk assessment of reactive works. Installation, repair, and enhancement of mechanical systems and components within the Institute’s state-of-the-art facilities. Adhere to safety standards and regulations in a research-oriented setting. Work alongside other areas of the EMS Department, to support day to day operations across the Institute. Contribute to a collaborative work culture, where your input is valued. Participation in ‘duty on call rota’ to provide out of hours reactive maintenance response following adequate training and familiarisation of site.
• Documentation And Reporting: Maintain meticulous records of mechanical maintenance activities and installations. Prepare comprehensive reports detailing completed tasks, identifying any challenges or opportunities for improvement.
• Training And Skill Development: Attend scheduled training sessions to augment your technical knowledge and skills.

Essential Specific requirements:

• City & Guilds/NVQ-3 Mechanical Engineering
• Experience in maintaining/repairing commercial and domestic systems/equipment
• Experience in maintenance problem solving tools and techniques
• Able to communicate technical subjects to staff at all levels and all areas of the organisation
• Able to risk assess and define safe working practices when faced with unplanned events and on a day to day basis to ensure a Safe System of Work.
• Competent IT skills
• Ability to undertake physical tasks associated with the role
• Able to work outside office hours if required

Desirable:

• ONC/HNC Process/Mechanical Engineering
• Experience of Process Engineering within a regulated environment such as in Food and/or Pharmaceutical
• First aid trained.
• Experience of Process Engineering in Bio-Containment Environment

Due to the nature of the work we do, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.

What We Offer:

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
• 25 days annual leave plus public and privilege days, increasing up to 31 days with long service.
• Enhanced Maternity package.
• Buy and sell annual leave
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
• Pirbright gym with membership
• Pirbright social club
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
• Cycle to work
• Subsidised staff restaurant
• Childcare allowance
• Free onsite parking
• Electric Car charging facilities

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. Responsibilities may change to carry out other duties as may be reasonably required by the line manager and may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing need of The Pirbright Institute.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.

We acknowledge, understand, and embrace diversity, equality and inclusion.