At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of groundbreaking astronomical instruments and manage international collaborations.
- Company: Join a leading science and technology organisation making a real impact on society.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, excellent pension, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options available to support your work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of astronomy and work with world-class experts.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or science, plus project management experience.
The predicted salary is between 67409 - 67409 £ per year.
Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers, technicians, and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. Whether it is sending probes into space or finding new ways to treat cancer, everyone here plays a vital role in making a positive difference to society. Come and discover how much you can achieve when you are surrounded by world-leading experts, encouraged to constantly learn, and empowered to explore your curiosity.
The UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC) is the national centre for the design and production of world-leading astronomical instruments and systems in the United Kingdom. As a science-driven, professional engineering organisation, we employ state-of-the-art technology across all engineering disciplines, including complex optical and infra-red detectors, vacuum-cryogenics, control electronics and software, for both astronomy and non-astronomy applications, in collaboration with academic and industrial partners across the globe.
To support our exciting astronomy programme, the UK Astronomy Technology Centre in Edinburgh is seeking a Senior Engineering Project Manager to lead and drive the development and delivery of complex astronomical instruments that will transform our understanding of the universe. You will specifically manage the UK-led HARMONI (High Angular Resolution Monolithic Optical and Near-infrared Integral field spectrograph) instrument project. HARMONI is being developed in Edinburgh, working closely with both UK and international partners. HARMONI is a powerful and versatile instrument destined for the Extremely Large Telescope in Chile, where it will enable astronomers to study many different astronomical targets, from distant galaxies, energetic quasars, and gamma-ray bursts to individual stars in nearby galaxies and exoplanets in the Milky Way.
Working alongside engineers, scientists and technicians, and working day-to-day with the Head of Engineering Delivery, this role will involve managing technical teams, schedule development, budgetary control, risk management and management of subcontracts.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading the overall HARMONI project, overseeing the work at UK ATC and with participating UK and international collaborators.
- Working closely with the Work Package Managers and other Institute Project Managers to ensure they are able to deliver the required scope to time and budget.
- Managing the delivery by confirming the design baseline and ensuring that the appropriate change management control processes are established and adhered to across the project.
- Managing the quality and safety aspects of the project using established standards and procedures.
Shortlisting Criteria
- Degree in a technical, engineering or science-based subject or equivalent relevant experience.
- High technical awareness and problem-solving capability: past experience working in an engineering discipline; adept at working in a multi-project, multi-disciplinary, technical environment.
- Professional experience as a project manager gained from leading at least one large technology-based project, involving collaborative work with international partners.
- Expertise across all areas of project management practice, including project set-up, schedule management, risk analysis, financial control and sub-contract management.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, organisational and presentational skills.
- Experience of working on collaborative projects involving international partners.
- People leadership skills.
- Well-developed influencing and negotiating skills.
Employee Benefits: We are offering an open-ended contract with a whole host of benefits including:
- 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days)
- An excellent average salary pension scheme
- Employee shopping/travel discounts
- Learning and development opportunities
We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers, and business-support team explore the unknown across every field you could think of. And they turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe's largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what is possible!
Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager.
Senior Engineering Project Manager employer: UK Research and Innovation
UK Research and Innovation is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities and a supportive culture that values collaboration across various functions. Enjoy competitive benefits and the chance to contribute meaningfully to research operations while managing essential services that support groundbreaking initiatives.
Contact Details:
UK Research and Innovation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Engineering Project Manager
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Engineering Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Senior Engineering Project Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at UK Research and Innovation a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to UK Research and Innovation specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Research and Innovation
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with UK Research and Innovation, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like UK Research and Innovation want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
