At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to build cutting-edge silicon detectors for CERN's ATLAS experiment.
- Company: University of Liverpool, a leader in physics research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research and contribute to the future of particle physics.
- Qualifications: Experience in cleanroom environments and wire-bonding is a plus.
The Department of Physics at the University of Liverpool is one of the worldwide construction sites for the upgrade of the Inner Tracker (ITk) for the high-luminosity upgrade of the ATLAS experiment at CERN's Large Hadron Collider. The ITk upgrade is a new detector for measuring the momentum and origin of charged particles emanating from the proton-proton collisions in the centre of the experiment.
You will be based in the Liverpool Semi-conductor Detector Centre cleanroom complex within the Department of Physics at Liverpool. You will join a team of 15 physicists and engineers working together on the manufacture and quality-control testing of silicon detectors for the endcap pixel tracker and the barrel strip tracker. You will participate in the gluing of components to form modules and be required to follow written instructions reliably and to enter data into the construction database.
You will then be responsible for making the electrical connections between the readout chips and detectors using ultrasonic-wedge wire-bonding on state-of-the-art machines. You will check the quality of wire-bonding through optical inspection and wire-pull tests using industry-standard equipment. You will have to monitor and report yields, machine problems and the usage of consumables. You will be expected to attend technical meetings at Liverpool and occasionally off-site as the project proceeds.
This role requires the highest standard of cleanroom working disciplines to be applied. You will be required to work from formal engineering drawings and specifications. Good sensory and physical co-ordination is essential given the small scale and delicate nature of the detectors. Past experience of working in a clean room environment and on wire-bonding are highly-desirable. You will have good communication skills and the ability to instruct others (e.g. students) in the production procedures.
We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Closing Date: 17 August 2026
Locations
Physics Technician in Cheshire, Warrington employer: University of Liverpool
The University of Liverpool is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among its staff. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful campus projects in a vibrant academic setting. Enjoy the unique advantage of working within a prestigious institution that values your expertise and encourages a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Physics Technician in Cheshire, Warrington
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Physics Technician role you’re after at University of Liverpool.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at University of Liverpool a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at University of Liverpool.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Physics Technician at University of Liverpool, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Physics Technician in Cheshire, Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Physics Technician, 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 University of Liverpool 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 University of Liverpool 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 University of Liverpool
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with University of Liverpool, 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 University of Liverpool 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.
