At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch technical support and service to customers in the field of genomics.
- Company: Join Illumina, a leader in genomic technology with a mission to improve global health.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible time off, private medical insurance, and a generous pension contribution.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on human health while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or biosciences with relevant field experience required.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 66000 £ per year.
What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.
Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.
As Field Service Engineer here at Illumina in the UK, you will play a critical role in leading the customer experience by providing high-quality on-site service and technical expertise to one of Illumina's Cambridge based customers. In addition, you will also be required to travel up to 30% to support other customers within the field. Travel will be mainly around the London and Cambridge area however could be UK wide dependent on business needs.
You will work closely with customers at the forefront of genetics and Next Generation Sequencing, supporting installations, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repairs of complex systems. As part of Illumina’s virtual extended team, One Illumina, you will collaborate with field-based and office-based colleagues to ensure customer expectations are met and exceeded. This role is central to our commitment to Make Customers Heroes by enabling their success through reliable, responsive, and expert service.
Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!
Why You: You are a technically capable, customer-focused professional who thrives in a fast-paced, field-based environment. You bring a qualification in Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biosciences, or a similar discipline, combined with several years of relevant field experience. Experience within the biotechnology or biomedical industry, or applicable military experience, will set you up for success in this role. You enjoy working autonomously while being part of a structured, remote team, and you take accountability for delivering on your commitments. You have strong problem-solving/troubleshooting abilities, excellent customer-facing skills, and the ability to communicate clearly through technical writing. Familiarity with optical alignments, robotics, fluidics, electrical/electronic, and mechanical systems is advantageous, as is experience working within a lab environment.
Responsibilities:
- Engineering support to a dedicated Illumina customer onsite in Cambridge (Roughly 70%)
- Engineering support to other Illumina customers (Field-based roughly 30%)
- Install, upgrade, repair, and maintain instrument systems within defined territory
- Interface between the field organization and internal support structure by providing timely onsite technical assistance to Customers, Field Applications Scientist/Specialists, and Territory Account Managers
- Serve as a focal point for problem resolution assistance to subsidiary or distributor support
- Provide technical support to staff, contractors and customers
- Special assignments and administrative duties as directed by Field Service Manager or designate
- Respond to service requests and ensure customer satisfaction
- Routinely complete administrative paperwork, such as but not limited to: Time Reports, Expense Reports, Service Agreement Quotations, Equipment Site Assessments, Inventory Reports, Internal Laboratory Reports, Equipment Checklists, RMA Forms and Service Reports
- Manage service parts inventory levels
- Maintain up to date customer information, technical files and appropriate databases
- Provide timely and accurate reports as requested
- Work in conjunction with other staff to coordinate new system placements, develop leads, promote upgrades and contract renewals etc.
- Maintain routine contact with existing customer base
- Up to 30% travel is required
The estimated base salary range for the Field Service Engineer - UK & Ireland role based in United Kingdom is GBP 44,000 - 66,000. The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This salary range applies to the primary posting location listed above. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range will be updated accordingly. Compensation ranges for other locations will differ to reflect local market competitiveness and will be shared with candidates if applicable during the recruitment process.
Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports your wellbeing, flexibility, and life beyond work—combining globally differentiated offerings with locally tailored programs. This includes support during important life moments, flexible time off, opportunities to give back, and a weeklong company-wide summer shutdown. In the UK, we also offer flexible benefits, a company contribution of 10% into your pension, and private medical insurance, alongside additional benefits to support you and your family.
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.
Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact accommodations@illumina.com.
Field Service Engineer - UK & Ireland employer: Illumina
At Illumina, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our employees enjoy industry-leading benefits, including flexible time off, private medical insurance, and a strong commitment to professional growth through various development opportunities. Working in the vibrant areas of Cambridge and London, you will be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to transforming human health, making every day at Illumina a chance to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Field Service Engineer - UK & Ireland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at Illumina. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding Illumina's mission and values. Show how your skills align with their goal of transforming human health. We want to see your passion for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to tackle real-world scenarios during the interview. We love candidates who can think on their feet and demonstrate their expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities right there, tailored for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Field Service Engineer - UK & Ireland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Field Service Engineer role. Highlight your technical skills, relevant experience, and any customer-facing roles you've had. We want to see how you can make a difference at Illumina!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our mission. Let us know how you can contribute to making customers heroes!
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can demonstrate their troubleshooting abilities and think on their feet!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Illumina
✨Know Your Tech
As a Field Service Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your technical expertise. Brush up on your knowledge of electrical and electronic systems, as well as any relevant experience with optical alignments and robotics. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles where you successfully troubleshot or repaired complex systems.
✨Customer-Centric Mindset
Illumina values customer satisfaction highly. Prepare to share instances where you've gone above and beyond for a customer. Think about how you can convey your ability to build relationships and communicate effectively, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to face scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving abilities. Practice articulating your thought process when tackling technical challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Illumina's Mission
Understanding Illumina's commitment to health equity and genomic technology is crucial. Research their projects and values, and be prepared to discuss how your personal goals align with their mission. This will show your genuine interest in the role and the company.