At a Glance
- Tasks: Design innovative mechanical systems for cutting-edge scientific equipment at the UK's national synchrotron.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, a leader in world-changing scientific research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days leave, flexible hours, and a vibrant campus with great amenities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global challenges while working with advanced technologies.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering/Mechatronics and experience in engineering design.
About Us
Diamond Light Source is the UKs national synchrotron, serving scientists and researchers from around the world. It is a not-for-profit joint venture, providing academic and industry researchers access to facilities that enable world-changing science. The machine generates extremely bright light that is directed into laboratories known as beamlines. Scientists use the light to find solutions to humanitys most critical challenges, from health, food security and biotechnology to energy, climate change and advanced materials. Diamond is in the process of upgrading to a fourth-generation synchrotron, generating a brighter and more coherent light. This will provide enhanced imaging and analysis capabilities, helping the UK to remain at the forefront of scientific discovery.
About the Role
We now have an opportunity for a Mechanical Design Engineer to provide design support for new Insertion Devices for the Diamond synchrotron. This principally requires designing stable support structures with precision mechanisms, accounting for magnetic and operational loads and motion requirements, and including design with ultra-high vacuum systems and cryogenics. The role will involve preparation of concept designs and layouts, assembly and detail component drawings for the device plus any assembly aids or tooling required, along with accompanying design calculations, FEA, and documentation. You will work closely with internal and external scientific and engineering staff to produce mechanical designs for projects.
Responsibilities include:
- Developing and applying expertise in technologies including ultra-high vacuum systems, stable support structures, precision mechanisms, cryogenics and the general design of scientific equipment and plant.
- Producing concept designs, layouts, assembly drawings and detailed manufacturing drawings, employing AutoCAD and Creo / Pro-Engineer software.
- Carrying out calculations and FEA as competence and supervision allow.
- Contributing to hazard analysis and risk assessment exercises.
- Maintaining and updating engineering drawings and documentation on projects.
- Liaising with external suppliers and assisting with procurement and logistical activities to support project delivery.
About You
You will have a good background in mechanical engineering and hold a Degree in Mechanical Engineering/Mechatronics or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Along with experience/knowledge in the following:
- Engineering drawings.
- Materials selection, joining and manufacturing techniques.
Experience in the following is desirable but not essential:
- Using Creo/Pro-E and PDM-Link.
- Using ANSYS or other FEA package.
- Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV) technology.
- Micron precision mechanism design.
- Motion control systems.
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. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable. Our campus-based location, with open green space, offers sports pitches, an outdoor gym, as well as a network of cycle, running and walking routes. Staff also have access to a range of onsite amenities including cafes, restaurants, a daycare nursery and free on-site parking. This role qualifies for a non-pensionable allowance of £2250 per annum. As standard this role is on-site based with any hybrid working arrangements being agreed on an ad-hoc basis (a minimum of 3 days working onsite per week will always be required). Arrangements may be different during the probationary period.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. The initial closing date for applications is 2nd August 2026, however applications will be reviewed and interviewed on an ongoing basis until this vacancy is filled.
Mechanical Design Engineer (Insertion Devices) employer: Diamond Light Source
Diamond Light Source is an outstanding employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific research in a collaborative and innovative environment. With a strong focus on employee well-being, the company provides an exceptional benefits package, including generous annual leave, flexible working hours, and access to extensive campus amenities. Employees are encouraged to grow professionally through hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and the chance to work alongside leading scientists and engineers.
