At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the SWIFT beamline project team to support construction and operation of cutting-edge scientific instrumentation.
- Company: Diamond Light Source, a leading scientific facility driving innovation in various fields.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible hours, and access to great onsite amenities.
- Other info: Dynamic campus with green spaces, sports facilities, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in groundbreaking research while working with advanced technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in scientific instrumentation and relevant qualifications or equivalent work experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.
About Us
Diamond Light Source is one of the world’s 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
The Spectroscopy Group at Diamond comprises three operational beamlines (I18, B18 and I20) that provide state-of-the-art instrumentation dedicated to X-Ray Absorption and Emission spectroscopies in the Hard X-ray range. In addition, a new flagship beamline (SWIFT) is in advanced design phase and will be built as part of the Diamond-II upgrade program. X-ray spectroscopic techniques are used by a large and interdisciplinary community of academic and industrial users, with applications spanning from the research of new energy storage materials to the environmental and heritage sciences.
We now have an opportunity for a Senior Mechanical Beamline Technician to join the SWIFT beamline project team. Your main duties will include:
- Support the scientists and technical support groups associated with the beamlines during beamline construction.
- Lead and coordinate the installation and assembly of scientific instrumentation and beamline infrastructure.
- Support the maintenance, commissioning, and beamline operations working with the beamline scientists and engineers in designing and installing new beamline equipment as part of upgrades.
- Ensuring that all beamline work is carried out in a safe manner, and that the equipment is appropriately integrated and installed.
As you will be part of the Spectroscopy Group, you will also contribute to the Group activities such as:
- Work with other staff from the four beamlines of the Spectroscopy group to support their operations.
- Helping users to carry out experiments, machining small pieces of equipment such as sample holders, and integrating ancillary equipment into the experimental areas.
About You
You should have significant experience supporting construction and operation of scientific instrumentation. You will hold a ONC or GNVQ (or equivalent) level 2 qualification although applicants with equivalent work experience will also be considered. You should have proven experience in at least one of the following areas: cryogenics, precision mechanics, ultra-high vacuum and high-vacuum, specialist gases, welding. As well as familiarity with using quality assurance procedures, work planning and safe systems of work, including risk assessments, permit to work, written SOPs etc. You will also have experience using cranes and slings etc. for heavy lifting and line management.
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.
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 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.
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.
Senior Beamline Mechanical Technician - SWIFT 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 well-being is reflected in our generous benefits package, which includes 26 days of annual leave, flexible working hours, and access to extensive onsite amenities. With opportunities for professional growth and involvement in groundbreaking scientific projects like the SWIFT beamline, joining our team means contributing to cutting-edge research while enjoying a supportive and engaging workplace culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Beamline Mechanical Technician - SWIFT
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Diamond Light Source and its projects, especially the SWIFT beamline. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of cryogenics, precision mechanics, and other relevant areas. Being able to discuss your experience confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at Diamond.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Beamline Mechanical Technician - SWIFT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about joining the SWIFT beamline project and how your experience aligns with our mission at Diamond Light Source.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in scientific instrumentation and any specific skills like cryogenics or precision mechanics. We love seeing how your background fits into what we do, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience.
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 helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of scientific instrumentation and beamline operations. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like cryogenics and ultra-high vacuum systems. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also have a solid understanding of what it entails.
✨Safety First
Since safety is a big part of this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with quality assurance procedures and risk assessments. Think of examples where you've implemented safe systems of work or dealt with heavy lifting using cranes and slings. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Team Player Vibes
The role involves working closely with scientists and other technicians, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've collaborated on projects or supported others in their work. This will show that you can integrate well into the Spectroscopy Group and contribute positively to the team.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the SWIFT beamline project or the Diamond-II upgrade. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also your proactive approach to understanding how you can contribute. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
