Assembly Technician - Consumables Manufacture
Location: Oxford (lab-based)
Background
Pictura Bio is an innovative MedTech start-up developing a next-generation in vitro diagnostics platform. Founded in 2021 as a spin-out from the University of Oxford, our goal is to advance technology that enables rapid pathogen identification for earlier diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Our platform combines microscopy, electronics, mechanics, fluidics, software, and biological assays into a highly integrated instrument system. The interaction between optics, physics, chemistry, biology, mechanics, and computation is therefore critical to overall system performance.
While our long-term objective is the development of a regulatory-compliant medical diagnostic device, we also continue to develop and supply advanced imaging systems and diagnostic assays for external customers. This provides the opportunity to work on both commercial instrumentation and the future development of our diagnostic platform.
Overview of the Role
You will be responsible for manufacturing our initial consumable assemblies to a consistent, high standard, working under the direction of our engineers. This role is suited to a careful, hands-on person who enjoys precise practical work and takes pride in doing a job the same way, to the same standard, every time.
This is not a design or development role. You will build consumables to an approved assembly SOP, and the quality of your work depends on following that procedure exactly. We welcome your suggestions for improving the process, but the engineering team must review and approve any change before it is adopted.
You will help to:
- Build consumables that meet their defined requirements, batch after batch.
- Identify and record any parts or assemblies that do not meet specification.
- Make assembly simpler, more repeatable, and more scalable through well-documented suggestions.
- Keep clear, accurate records that support our quality and regulatory work.
Key Responsibilities
Consumable Assembly & Build
- Build consumable assemblies in line with the current assembly SOP and work instructions.
- Prepare, organise, and maintain a clean and orderly assembly area, including tools, fixtures, and materials.
- Assist with managing component stock and flag shortages or supply issues early.
Inspection & Testing
- Test and inspect assemblies against defined acceptance criteria.
- Document test and inspection results clearly and accurately.
- Assist with investigating defects and non-conforming parts.
Process Improvement
- Document observations on the assembly process, such as difficult steps, recurring defects, or time-consuming tasks.
- Raise improvement suggestions with the engineering team for review, rather than introducing changes at the bench.
- Assist with trialling approved changes and updating work instructions.
Quality & Traceability
- Document batch records and assembly traceability.
About You
You are a practical technician with strong hands-on skills and experience of careful, precise work and will likely have:
- Experience in assembly, manufacturing, laboratory, or other hands-on technical work, with GCSEs in English and Maths or an equivalent qualification
- The ability to follow detailed written procedures exactly and consistently
- A good eye for detail and the patience for repetitive, precise tasks
- Confidence handling small or delicate components
- Familiarity with basic hand tools and measuring equipment (e.g., callipers, scales, magnifiers)
- The ability to spot when something isn't right and raise it promptly
- An appreciation for consistency, cleanliness, and quality in production
- Clear communication and the confidence to make constructive suggestions
- The ability to work well as part of a small, multidisciplinary team
Highly Desirable
- Laboratory experience, ideally including good laboratory practice
- Experience in medical devices, diagnostics, or life sciences
- Experience working within a GMP or cleanroom environment
- Experience working under a microscope or with fluidic components
- Experience supporting manufacture or production of regulated products
- Experience working in a start-up or rapidly growing technology company
Assembly Technician – Consumables Manufacture in Oxford employer: PicturaBio
PicturaBio provides a collaborative and innovative work environment, focusing on rapid pathogen detection technologies. Employees benefit from hands-on experience and opportunities for professional growth within a multidisciplinary team. The company's commitment to quality and rigorous standards makes it an attractive employer in the biotech sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assembly Technician – Consumables Manufacture in Oxford
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
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How to prepare for a job interview at PicturaBio
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
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In a full-time role, companies like PicturaBio value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
