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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to perform hands-on mechanical testing and develop innovative testing methods.
- Company: A growing design and manufacturing company in southern Hampshire with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Stable environment with genuine opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a cutting-edge lab while tackling exciting technical challenges.
- Qualifications: HNC or ONC in Mechanical Engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
- Other info: Training provided; previous lab experience is a plus!
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical / Materials Lab Test Technician to join a growing design and manufacturing company based in southern Hampshire. The business is flourishing and continues to go from strength to strength, offering a stable yet dynamic environment with genuine opportunities to develop.
You will join a small, highly skilled test team and play a key role in expanding the company’s testing capability. The role is hands-on and varied, involving the application of sensors, the build of bespoke test rigs, and the execution of a wide range of novel and challenging tests.
Testing activities range from very small-scale coupon tests (just a few millimetres in size) through to large, full-scale structural tests, including:
- Loads of up to 500 tonnes
- Burst pressures of up to 4,000 bar
Experience with high-pressure testing is highly desirable, as is a strong appreciation for health and safety in a laboratory and industrial testing environment.
Principal Accountabilities
- Perform short- and long-term mechanical testing on composite, polymeric, and metallic specimens and assemblies in line with project plans and timescales.
- Operate, maintain, document, and calibrate a wide range of test equipment, including hydraulic systems, workshop equipment, and lifting equipment.
- Support the development of new testing methods, equipment, and instrumentation to improve understanding of product capability and structural performance.
- Train other staff (within skill level) on testing activities and laboratory procedures.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across testing methods and product performance.
Job Knowledge & Experience
Education
- HNC or ONC in Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent relevant industry experience.
Skills
- Performing engineering tests and mechanical assembly.
- Strong problem-solving ability and excellent attention to detail.
- Instrumentation and installation of sensors and strain gauges on components.
- Fault finding, testing, calibration, and maintenance of test equipment.
- Operation of hydraulic pump systems.
- PC skills including Excel, Word, and test monitoring/data acquisition software.
- Previous experience in a laboratory or scientific environment is advantageous (training will be provided).
- Familiarity with precision measuring equipment.
- Experience using microscopes, cutting machines, and polishing equipment is beneficial.
Interpersonal Skills
- High energy and enthusiasm for technical challenges.
- A strong team player with good communication skills.
Specific Technical Areas of Interest (Advantageous)
Experience or interest in one or more of the following would be highly beneficial:
- Composite materials, including advanced thermoplastic composites
- Fatigue, tension, compression, and material development testing
- Strain gauging, instrumentation, and high-accuracy data acquisition
- Thermoplastic materials and associated processing/testing methods
- Bespoke high-load test frames and burst-test cells
- Universal tensile and compression testing machines
- Hydrostatic and hydraulic cyclic test systems
- Pressure transducers, pressure testing methods, and high-pressure systems
- Mechanical, thermal, and environmental material property testing
Mechanical / Materials Test Technician in Fareham employer: Gerrell & Hard
Contact Detail:
Gerrell & Hard Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical / Materials Test Technician in Fareham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your hands-on experience. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied your skills, especially in mechanical testing and equipment maintenance.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for the role! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know how excited you are about the opportunity to contribute to their testing capabilities and continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical / Materials Test Technician in Fareham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical / Materials Test Technician role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in mechanical testing and any hands-on work with test equipment. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention any specific experiences with high-pressure testing or lab environments that could set you apart.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your problem-solving abilities. We love candidates who can think on their feet and tackle technical challenges head-on. Share examples of how you've overcome obstacles in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to submit all your documents in one go. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gerrell & Hard
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mechanical testing and materials. Familiarise yourself with the types of tests mentioned in the job description, like fatigue and compression testing. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable about the role.
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Since this role is hands-on, be prepared to talk about any practical experience you have with test equipment or laboratory procedures. If you've worked with hydraulic systems or sensors before, share specific examples. This will help demonstrate your capability to hit the ground running.
✨Safety First!
Health and safety are crucial in a lab environment. Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you've applied them in previous roles. Showing that you prioritise safety will reassure the interviewers that you can maintain a safe working environment.
✨Team Player Vibes
This position requires collaboration with a small team, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in past projects, especially in technical settings. Good communication and enthusiasm for challenges will make you stand out as a candidate.
