At a Glance
- Tasks: Manufacture components and support teaching and research activities in a dynamic mechanical workshop.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a leader in science and engineering education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research while working with cutting-edge machinery.
- Qualifications: HND or HNC with experience in mechanical workshop environments and CNC machines.
An excellent opportunity has arisen within the School of Geosciences on the Kings Buildings Campus for a Mechanical Workshop Technician. The role holder will play a critical role contributing to the School’s teaching and research activities. As a key member of the Schools Technical Services Team, the post holder will be based in the Mechanical Workshop and will be required to manufacture components to a high standard. The post also integrates fieldwork responsibilities, providing mechanical and maintenance support, as well as assisting academic course organisers with their needs during day and residential trips.
The role offers variety and stretches across a range of activities working within an environment of contemporary machinery with CNC capability. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to the manufacture of novel research prototypes, allowing the successful candidate to develop professionally, within a supportive and collegiate environment. This post is full-time on campus (35 hours per week) however, we are open to considering flexible working patterns.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- HND or HNC plus proven experience in a technical or scientific role.
- Proven capability in design and build of complex items in a mechanical workshop using both manual and CNC machines (lathes, grinders, turning centres, milling machines etc).
- Experience of working with a wide range of materials (metals and non-metals).
- Extensive experience in a mechanical workshop environment or other similar role.
- Hands on/tools on aptitude with repair and maintenance of scientific equipment.
- Understanding of good workshop/laboratory management practices.
- Ability to understand and interpret the requirements of staff and students.
- Analytical and technical problem-solving skills- including fault diagnosis and resolution.
- Experienced team worker.
- Understanding of Health and Safety regulations.
- Excellent IT skills (e.g. MS Office, CAD).
- Full, clean UK driving license.
- Ability to manage workload, meeting deadlines and quality requirements.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Excellent record keeping and time management and planning are essential.
- Experience of training others.
As a valued member of our team you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, such as a generous holiday entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity and inclusion:
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Key dates to note:
The closing date for applications is 14 September 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone.
Mechanical Workshop Technician in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where every team member is valued. As an Operations Supervisor, you will enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth while contributing to a world-class institution that prioritises community impact and diversity. With award-winning facilities and a commitment to equality, this role provides a unique chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and visitors alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Workshop Technician in Edinburgh
✨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 University of Edinburgh.
✨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 University of Edinburgh love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of University of Edinburgh 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 in Edinburgh
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 University of Edinburgh 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 University of Edinburgh
✨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 University of Edinburgh.
✨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 University of Edinburgh.
✨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 University of Edinburgh, making you a more appealing candidate.
