Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID
Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID

Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID

Full-Time 32363 - 34429 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Diamond Light Source

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Assemble and test mechanical components for cutting-edge beamline technology.
  • Company: Join Diamond Light Source, the UK's leading synchrotron facility.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 26 days leave, flexible hours, and a great pension scheme.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career growth.
  • Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research in quantum materials and innovative technologies.
  • Qualifications: ONC or GNVQ level 2, with mechanical engineering knowledge.

The predicted salary is between 32363 - 34429 £ per year.

Overview

As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.

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. Diamond is undertaking a major upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond-II, which will combine a new machine and new beamlines with upgrades to optics, detectors, sample environments, sample delivery capabilities and computing to generate a brighter light source at higher energy.

About The Role

The Coherent Soft X-ray Imaging and Diffraction (CSXID) beamline is one of the new flagship beamlines under construction as part of the Diamond-II upgrade project. It will provide high resolution imaging techniques capable of measurements in both 2D and 3D, supporting a diverse research portfolio from quantum materials for future technological devices to battery materials and catalysts. We now have the opportunity for a Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician to join the growing team dedicated to supporting the CSXID beamline. You will also become part of the Magnetic Materials Groups team of technicians which support a range of different beamlines and a support laboratory.

The Role Will Include

  • Assembling, testing, installing and assisting with commissioning of mechanical beamline components and systems.
  • Assisting with prototyping activities.
  • Performing routine maintenance activities and undertake testing and fault finding activities following from any component failures.
  • Developing designs and facilitating the procurement or assembly of small mechanical components to support the operational needs of the beamline.
  • Assisting users and scientists with the preparation and set-up of experiments.
  • Maintaining a clean and safe working environment within the beamline following safe systems of work and perform routine inspections.

For The Senior Beamline Technician You Will Also

  • Supervise and coordinate work on different beamlines within the group.
  • Work closely with other technical, engineering and scientific staff to produce designs for new systems, equipment or processes.

Applicants will be considered at either Beamline Technician or Senior Beamline Technician, depending on the strength of your skills, experience and qualifications.

About You

You will hold an ONC or GNVQ level 2 (or equivalent) qualification or demonstrate equivalent work experience.

You Will Demonstrate Knowledge And Experience Of

  • Understanding and interpret mechanical engineering drawings.
  • Carrying out a variety of intricate mechanical and electrical assembly tasks.
  • Using standard measurement instruments including multimeters and vernier callipers.
  • Good problem solving, planning and organising skills.

To be considered for the Senior role you will also demonstrate experience in:

  • Ultra-high vacuum equipment.
  • Chilled water and compressed air systems.
  • At least one of the following areas: cryogenics, magnetic fields, specialist gases.

Immigration / Sponsorship

This position meets a SOC code that is on the UK Government’s Temporary Shortage List. This brings with it restrictions on our ability to sponsor non-UK & Irish nationals.

At Technician level we can potentially sponsor those individuals that have already been sponsored in the UK since before 4th April 2024, as well as those individuals that meet the eligibility requirements of the new entrant rate, however, such employment could only be on a fixed term basis for the duration of your new entrant rate eligibility.

At Senior Technician level we could sponsor any eligible individuals, however, under recent changes to the UK Immigration system, such employment could only be on a fixed term basis, and individuals that are relocating to the UK to take up employment against a position matched to a Temporary Shortage List SOC code would not be able to bring dependants with them to the UK.

Please do not apply to this vacancy if you require sponsorship and do not meet the above criteria, sponsorship outside of this criteria is impossible.

Skilled Worker visa: temporary shortage list – GOV.UK

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 also specify whether you are applying for the Senior Beamline Technician or Beamline Technician.

The closing date for applications is Monday 4th May 2026.

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Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID employer: Diamond Light Source

At Diamond Light Source, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive benefits package, which includes generous annual leave, flexible working hours, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Located in Harwell, Oxfordshire, you will be part of a pioneering team dedicated to advancing scientific research while enjoying a supportive culture that values work-life balance and community engagement.
Diamond Light Source

Contact Detail:

Diamond Light Source Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Research Diamond Light Source and the CSXID beamline. Understanding their projects and goals will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give us insights into the company culture and even lead to referrals, which can boost your chances of landing the job.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of mechanical engineering and any specific skills mentioned in the job description. Being able to confidently discuss your experience with ultra-high vacuum equipment or cryogenics can set you apart.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows that you’re serious about joining the team at Diamond Light Source.

We think you need these skills to ace Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID

Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Assembly
Understanding Mechanical Engineering Drawings
Prototyping
Routine Maintenance
Testing and Fault Finding
Design Development
Procurement of Mechanical Components
Experiment Preparation and Set-Up
Safe Working Practices
Supervision and Coordination
Collaboration with Technical and Scientific Staff
Ultra-High Vacuum Equipment
Chilled Water Systems
Compressed Air Systems

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about working with cutting-edge technology and contributing to the CSXID beamline.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source

✨Know Your Beamline Basics

Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of beamline technology and the specific functions of the CSXID beamline. Understanding how high-resolution imaging techniques work and their applications in research will show your genuine interest and expertise.

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Be prepared to discuss your experience with mechanical engineering drawings and assembly tasks. Bring examples of past projects where you used measurement instruments like multimeters and vernier callipers. This will help demonstrate your hands-on skills and problem-solving abilities.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-world challenges, such as fault finding or routine maintenance. Think of specific instances where you successfully resolved issues or improved processes, and be ready to share those stories.

✨Emphasise Team Collaboration

Since the role involves working closely with scientists and other technicians, highlight your teamwork experiences. Discuss how you've coordinated with others in previous roles, especially in a technical environment, to showcase your collaborative spirit.

Beamline Technician / Senior Beamline Technician - CSXID
Diamond Light Source

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