At a Glance
- Tasks: Support installation and maintenance of advanced RF systems at a leading scientific facility.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, a cutting-edge scientific research centre in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Work onsite in a vibrant campus with excellent amenities and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects that drive innovation in science and technology.
- Qualifications: Engineering apprenticeship or equivalent experience in mechanical assembly and engineering.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Us
Diamond Light Source is one of the worlds most advanced scientific facilities. We're home to the UK's 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 RF Mechanical Technician to provide support in the installation, assembly and mechanical maintenance of all equipment overseen by the RF group. This includes cryogenic plant, vacuum cryostat assemblies, high-power amplifiers, transmission lines and all supporting devices.
Main duties will include:
- Supporting the mechanical day-to-day operation of Diamond RF Group infrastructure.
- Assisting with the installation and commissioning of Diamond-II RF systems and dismantling of the current system.
- Assisting in providing minor electrical support to RF group equipment.
- Liaising / communicating with various departments / teams across Diamond to safely achieve operation and maintenance activities.
- Assisting with the preparation of safety risk assessments and method statements.
- Assisting with the regular inspection of installed equipment.
About You
You will have completed an engineering apprenticeship or have equivalent training or experience, along with knowledge and experience in the following:
- Mechanical assembly tasks
- Mechanical engineering drawings
- Experience of vacuum assemblies, instrumentation and MS office software would be desirable.
A desire to learn, take on a variety of tasks, new challenges and the ability to work independently would be an advantage.
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. 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.
As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.
Immigration / Sponsorship
This position meets a SOC code that is on the UK Governments 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. 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.
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 28th June 2026, however, we encourage early applications as some candidates may be interviewed before this date.
RF Mechanical Technician in Oxford 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 comprehensive benefits package, including 26 days of annual leave, flexible working hours, and access to extensive onsite amenities, ensures a positive work/life balance for our employees. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to employee well-being, joining our team as an RF Mechanical Technician means becoming part of a pioneering scientific community dedicated to advancing technology and research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RF Mechanical Technician in Oxford
✨Get Hands-On with Temporary Projects
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We think you need these skills to ace RF Mechanical Technician in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Versatile Engineering Skills:For a temporary engineering role like this one at Diamond Light Source, make sure to showcase a broad range of your engineering skills. Talk about different projects you’ve undertaken, focusing on your problem-solving ability and adaptability—key traits for temporary positions that depend on quick integration into teams.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this is a temporary role, clarity is essential. In your cover letter, be upfront about your availability and how soon you can start. Employers like Diamond Light Source want to know that you can hit the ground running, so don’t shy away from mentioning your flexibility!
Tailor Your CV to Showcase Relevant Experience:Make sure your CV is tailored to reflect the specific engineering projects relevant to the job. For instance, if you’ve worked on temporary contracts before or have engaged in diverse engineering processes, highlight these experiences to show how well-rounded you are.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source
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Engineering roles often involve assessing your technical expertise, so be prepared to delve into your core skills. Brush up on relevant software and tools you’ve used before, as well as any engineering principles that relate to the position at Diamond Light Source. We want you to showcase your hands-on experience and problem-solving capabilities – it could be the difference between you and another candidate!
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Expect to tackle some practical scenarios during the interview. Whether it's a design challenge or a troubleshooting test, Diamond Light Source might want to see how you approach real-world engineering problems. Think of specific examples from your past work where you had to think on your feet and be ready to walk your interviewers through your thought process.
✨Show Your Adaptability in Temporary Roles
Since this is a temporary position, it’s key to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to hit the ground running. Make sure to convey your eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to the team and the specific projects at Diamond Light Source. We all know that temporary roles can be a bit of a whirlwind, so emphasise your quick learning skills and your approach to managing change.
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If you've worked on engineering projects that align with the role at Diamond Light Source, make sure to bring them up! A portfolio can be a great way to illustrate your engineering prowess. Discuss the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the results achieved – this will give the interviewers a tangible idea of what you bring to the table.
