At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair mechanical systems in a cutting-edge research environment.
- Company: Join The Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, gym membership, and childcare allowance.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global health while developing your technical skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
The predicted salary is between 38056 - 46512 £ per year.
The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks.
We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors.
Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats.
Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience.
We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live.
Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.
Organisation position and purpose
The Pirbright Institute carries out planned preventative and reactive maintenance activities, across a range of building services and process plant, including high containment systems, such as HVAC systems, drainage, effluent treatment plants/equipment and standard building services.
As a Mechanical Technician, you will be working within a team of three, reporting into the Lead Mechanical Technician.
Although you will be working within a team, there will be times that you could be required to perform duties on a solo basis as well as participate in a ‘duty on call rota’ to provide out of hours reactive maintenance response in the future, as outlined below ‘On Call Working’ section.
You will be responsible for a blend of duties such as Mechanical Systems Maintenance, documentation and reporting, as well as other duties directed by your Line Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintenanceand Engineering Support
- Respond to reactive maintenance requests and undertake repairs in a safe and timely manner.
- Diagnosefaultsandassistwithidentifyingappropriatecorrectiveactions.
- Support the installation, replacement and modification of mechanical equipment and services.
- Assistwithinspections, testingandservicingactivitiestoensureequipmentremainssafeandoperational.
- Maintain a professional and customer-focused approach when interacting with building users and stakeholders.
- Complywithallapplicablehealth, safetyandenvironmentalprocedures.
- Work in accordance with approved safe systems of work, risk assessments and permit-to-work arrangements.
- Report hazards, defects, incidents and near misses in accordance with Institute procedures.
- Documentationand Reporting
- Completemaintenancerecords, jobsheetsandupdatecomputerisedmaintenancemanagementsystems(CMMS)accuratelyandinatimelymanner.
- Recordcompletedwork, equipmentdefectsandmaintenanceobservations.
- Escalatesignificantissues, recurringfaultsorsafetyconcernstothe Lead Mechanical Technician.
- Participateinmandatoryandrole-specifictraining.
- Maintain and develop technical knowledge and competencies relevant to the role.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Estates Managemet Services team.
- Other Duties
- Undertakeanyotherdutiescommensuratewiththegradeandnatureofthepost.
- Support emergency responses relating to building services, equipment failures and operational incidents when required.
- NVQLevel3, City&Guilds Level3orequivalentqualificationin Mechanical Engineering, Building Services Engineeringorarelateddiscipline.
- Experienceofplannedandreactivemaintenancewithinacommercial, industrial, facilitiesorestatesenvironment.
- Knowledgeofhealthandsafetyrequirementsassociatedwithmaintenanceactivities.
- Abilityto communicate effectively with colleagues, contractors and customers.
- Basic IT skills for the completion of maintenance records and documentation.
- Abilitytoundertakethephysicalrequirementsoftherole.
- Flexibility to work outside normal working hours on occasion to support operational requirements.
- Experienceworkingwithinafacilitiesmanagementorestatesmaintenanceenvironment.
- Experienceworkingwithinaregulated, technicalorscientificenvironment.
- Experienceofusingcomputerisedmaintenancemanagementsystems(CMMS).
- On-Call Working
The Institute reserves the right to require the postholder to participate in an on-call Engineer rota where operational requirements necessitate this.
Any requirement to join the on-call rota will be subject to the postholder having successfully completed the necessary training and being assessed as suitably qualified, competent and experienced to undertake on-call duties safely and effectively.
- Participation in the on-call rota will attract additional remuneration in accordance with the Institute's on-call arrangements and terms and conditions applicable at that time.
Due to the nature of the work we do, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
- Whatweoffer
- 25daysannualleavepluspublicandprivilegedays, increasingupto31dayswithlongservice.
- Enhanced Maternitypackage.
- Pirbrightgymwithmembership
- Pirbrightsocialclub
- Cycletowork
- Subsidisedstaffrestaurant
- Childcareallowance
- Freeonsiteparking
- Electric Carchargingfacilities
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it.
Responsibilities may change to carry out other duties as may be reasonably required by the line manager and may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing need of The Pirbright Institute
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright. ac. uk for an update.
- Weacknowledge, understand, andembracediversity, equalityandinclusion
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Mechanical Maintenance Technician employer: Pirbright Institute
The Pirbright Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative working environment that fosters community and innovation. Located in a beautiful semi-rural setting, employees benefit from generous leave policies, a robust pension scheme, and access to on-site facilities including a gym and restaurant, all while contributing to groundbreaking research in viral disease control. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, joining Pirbright means being part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on global health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Maintenance 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 Pirbright Institute.
✨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 Pirbright Institute love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Pirbright Institute 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 Maintenance 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 Pirbright Institute and the Mechanical Maintenance 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 Pirbright Institute
✨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 Pirbright Institute.
✨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 Pirbright Institute.
✨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 Pirbright Institute, making you a more appealing candidate.
