At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and manufacture high precision components while ensuring safe working practices.
- Company: Join the Department of Physics at Imperial College London, a world-leading institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy 43 days of annual leave, flexible working, and generous pension schemes.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive culture that values collaboration and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research and collaborate with academics and students.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND level education, engineering apprenticeship, and CNC machine experience required.
The predicted salary is between 47213 - 47213 £ per year.
The Department of Physics is looking to appoint a Mechanical Workshop Technician, to join the existing team based within the Opto-Mechanical Instrumentation Workshop. The post holder will work with academics, researchers, and students to develop the design and manufacture of high precision bespoke components, whilst ensuring that safe and effective working practices are carried out. The role will play a key role in the development and modification of research systems and equipment.
The role is varied and will work alongside the Workshop Manager (Mechanical Technician) and a Glass Technician, to manufacture and modify high precision bespoke components for use in research both within the Department’s Light Community and external collaborators. The facility has a range of equipment including manual/CNC machines and 3D printers, along with access to equipment in the Physics Mechanical Instrumentation workshop. You will be providing guidance to students and researchers in the design of laboratory equipment, as well as hands-on technical support to staff engaged in the delivery of experimental teaching/research. Throughout, the postholder will be required to ensure effective maintenance of equipment, and compliance with health and safety in accordance with laboratory practices and procedures.
We are looking for:
- Educated to HNC/HND level with completion of a recognised apprenticeship in engineering, or equivalent.
- Practical experience within an engineering workshop.
- Experience of using CNC machines, including lathes and milling machines.
- Proven experience of using CAM and CAD software.
- Experience of working from engineering drawings and written instructions.
- Ability to problem-solve and organise work to meet deadlines, whilst working across multiple projects.
- Excellent communication skills across a wide range of stakeholders.
- Experience ensuring that security and safety standards are maintained at all times.
- A willingness to continue to develop own technical skills and expertise in workshop technology, consistent with the needs of the department.
We can offer you:
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
- Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 43 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
- Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
- Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
This is a full-time, open-ended post (35 hours per week).
For queries about the role, contact: Martin Kehoe, Opto-Mechanical Instrumentation Workshop Manager - m.kehoe@imperial.ac.uk. For queries about the application process, contact: The Physics Knowledge Hub - physicsconnect@imperial.ac.uk.
The Department of Physics is part of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Imperial College London and is structured into five Research Communities: Light, Matter, Physics of Particles, Physics of the Universe, and Space, Plasma and Climate. The Department of Physics is proud to hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and thriving community. We value the strength that comes from diverse perspectives, and we warmly welcome applications from talented people of all backgrounds, and particularly those underrepresented in physics, to join our vibrant community supported by initiatives that promote collaboration, inclusivity, and professional development.
Mechanical Workshop Technician employer: Imperial College London
As a Section Manager at Imperial College, you will thrive in a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing research for the benefit of humanity. Enjoy a competitive salary and an impressive benefits package, including 41 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and access to on-site leisure facilities. Join a diverse and inclusive work culture that prioritises your personal and professional growth, making it an exceptional place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Workshop Technician
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Imperial College London.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Imperial College London love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Imperial College London and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Workshop Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Imperial College London and the Mechanical Workshop Technician role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Imperial College London.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Imperial College London.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Imperial College London, making you a more appealing candidate.
