At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop advanced optoelectronic devices and support innovative research projects.
- Company: Be part of the University of Southampton's Optoelectronics Research Centre, a leader in cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work environment, training opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until July 2028, starting ideally in August 2025.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in sectors like healthcare and renewable energy while working with top researchers.
- Qualifications: Ideal candidates have an HND, Degree, or NVQ4, plus hands-on experience in manufacturing or laboratory work.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing
Join the University of Southampton as a Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing.
We are excited to invite applications for a Senior Technician to support our welcoming and collaborative team of world-leading researchers at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), University of Southampton. With over 300 staff and students, the ORC is an internationally recognised hub for cutting-edge research, delivering real-world impact across manufacturing, communication technologies, augmented reality, healthcare, renewable energy, and environmental solutions.
About The Role
As a valued member of our team, you will play a key role in the development and production of advanced optoelectronic devices for applications such as quantum technologies, integrated optical sensors, and laser optics. You’ll be supporting a wide range of fabrication and characterisation activities, working side-by-side with researchers on academic and industrial projects that aim to scale up manufacturing processes for wider adoption. A core part of this role will involve close collaboration with industry to help translate our research into tangible innovations for the UK’s growing photonics sector.
Your Responsibilities
You will be responsible for operating and maintaining state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation equipment, including ultra-precision tools, polishing systems, cleanroom instruments, and material analysis tools. You’ll also have opportunities to contribute in our advanced laser laboratories and other university facilities. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence will help us create high-performance optical components that advance both our research goals and commercial partnerships.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome candidates from a variety of technical backgrounds and are especially keen to hear from individuals with a qualification equivalent to an HND, Degree, NVQ4, or similar, combined with relevant experience. Practical, hands-on experience in any of the following areas is essential: laboratory work, manufacturing, cleanroom fabrication, or the assembly of optical components and systems.
We’re looking for someone who enjoys working both independently and collaboratively, and who values contributing to a supportive team environment. In this role, you’ll also help train and support researchers and PhD students, so strong communication and mentoring skills will be a plus.
The initial appointment is based on a fixed term post until 31/07/2028, ideally starting in August 2025.
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Prof James Gates gates@southampton.ac.uk
Working At The University Of Southampton
Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton!
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Management and Manufacturing
Industries: Higher Education
The University of Southampton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.
Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing in Southampton employer: University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture at the Optoelectronics Research Centre, where innovation meets collaboration. Employees benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that impacts various sectors, including healthcare and renewable energy. With a commitment to supporting staff growth and fostering a supportive team environment, the University provides a fulfilling workplace for those passionate about advancing technology and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in optical manufacturing and optoelectronics. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and the specific role at the University of Southampton.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the photonics sector, especially those connected to the University of Southampton. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the research being conducted at the Optoelectronics Research Centre.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with fabrication and characterisation equipment. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your mentoring and communication skills by preparing examples of how you've supported or trained others in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to contribute positively to the collaborative environment at the ORC.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in optical manufacturing, cleanroom fabrication, and laboratory work. Use specific examples to demonstrate your hands-on skills and technical knowledge.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the University of Southampton. Mention how your background aligns with their focus on advanced optoelectronic devices and your commitment to collaborative research.
Highlight Communication Skills:Since the role involves mentoring researchers and PhD students, emphasise your communication and mentoring abilities. Provide examples of past experiences where you successfully trained or supported others.
Showcase Attention to Detail:Given the importance of precision in optical manufacturing, include examples that showcase your attention to detail. This could be through specific projects or tasks where accuracy was crucial to success.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Southampton
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with optical components and systems. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've operated or maintained fabrication and characterisation equipment, as this will demonstrate your practical knowledge and suitability for the role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with researchers and PhD students, it's important to convey your ability to work in a team. Share examples of past experiences where you successfully collaborated on projects, and how you contributed to a supportive team environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to cleanroom fabrication, material analysis tools, and ultra-precision equipment. Brush up on relevant technical concepts and be ready to explain your understanding of these processes, as well as any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Strong communication is key in this role, especially when mentoring others. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated complex ideas in the past, whether in a training context or while collaborating on research projects, to show that you're capable of supporting and guiding others.
