At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vacuum systems for advanced scientific projects and collaborate with technical teams.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, a leading scientific facility driving innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days leave, flexible hours, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and community involvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge science while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Honours degree in Physics or related field; knowledge of vacuum systems is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
4 year fixed term contract. As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.
About Us
Diamond Light Source is one of the worlds most advanced scientific facilities. We are home to the UKs 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.
About the Role
We now have an opportunity for a Graduate Vacuum Systems Engineer or Vacuum Instrumentation Engineer (subject to the strength of your background) to provide vacuum instrumentation engineering, science and vacuum operations support to Diamond on a 4-year fixed term basis. Your main duties will include:
- Providing vacuum support for Diamonds accelerators and beamlines and associated vacuum equipment.
- Carrying out daily monitoring, reporting and support of assigned vacuum systems.
- Working with technical staff, suppliers and contractors on vacuum systems designs and their implementation.
- Contributing to the design of Diamond vacuum control systems and interlocks and assist in their commissioning.
In addition, for the Vacuum Instrumentation Engineer you will be:
- Procuring vacuum equipment for new machine components and beamlines.
- Writing and reviewing procedures, specifications and manuals, alongside assisting with vacuum training.
Within these roles you will be able to participate in the on-call duties of the group and provide vacuum support to the machine and beamlines. Applicants will be considered at either Graduate Vacuum Systems Engineer, or Vacuum Instrumentation Engineer level, depending on the strength of your skills, experience and qualifications.
About You
You will hold an honours degree in Physics, or an appropriate branch of another Physical Science, Mathematics or Engineering. You will demonstrate experience and sound knowledge of ultra-high vacuum bakeout procedures and their setup, with further knowledge regarding the operation of vacuum pumps and instrumentation technologies being beneficial. You will display knowledge of physics and engineering principles, along with good problem-solving and analysis abilities. To be considered at the Vacuum Instrumentation Engineer level, any experience in one or more of the following areas will be beneficial:
- Physics of ultra-high vacuum or accelerator vacuum systems
- Computer programming
- Linux operating system
- Industrial or accelerator control systems
- Instrumentation interfaces
All candidates must demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills, to interact with staff and stakeholders at all levels. Applicants will be considered at either Graduate Vacuum Systems Engineer or Vacuum Instrumentation Engineer level, depending on the strength of your skills, experience and qualifications. As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.
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 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.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. The closing date for applications is 5th July.
(Graduate) Vacuum Systems Engineer in Didcot employer: Diamond Light Source
At Diamond Light Source, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. 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. Join us in advancing scientific discovery while enjoying a supportive culture that values work-life balance and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land (Graduate) Vacuum Systems Engineer in Didcot
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
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We think you need these skills to ace (Graduate) Vacuum Systems Engineer in Didcot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Diamond Light Source. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Diamond Light Source. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Diamond Light Source. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Diamond Light Source to drive research projects forward.
