Senior Technical Officer

Post Title Senior Technical Officer - Microfluidics and Aerosol Instrumentation  

SBU/Department: School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science

FTE: 1.0fte (working 37 hours per week) although job share and 0.8fte (29.6 hours per week) would be considered. 

Duration of Contract: Permanent 

Salary: UH5 £27,181 (or pro rata if applicable) to £30,487 by annual increments  

Annual Leave: 25 days plus standard public holidays and an additional 4 days including the closure of our office between Christmas and New Year

Location: College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

We are a committed equal opportunities employer and we particularly encourage applications from applicants who may wish to job share or work part time, as well as from women candidates to reflect staff under-representation, where it exists, and our diverse student cohort.

The School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science (SPECS) is seeking to appoint a Senior Technical Officer into an exciting Technical role. SPECS is in a thrilling period of expansion with an imminent new £100M Building “SPECTRA” and a multimillion pound research grant. We offer a wide range of degrees including Physics, Robotics & AI, Computer Science, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering and in terms of size for those disciplines, we are the Number 1 HEI in the UK. Whilst the role will primarily be supporting the Microfluidics and Aerosol Instrumentation area, you will also have the opportunity to support other areas of the School. This dynamic position will cover a multi discipline research laboratory with the potential to utilise your talent to make it your own.

Main duties and responsibilities

As a technician specializing in Microfluidics and Aerosol Instrumentation, your primary responsibilities will revolve around facilitating the fabrication, assembly, and testing of microfluidics and aerosol collection devices. Your daily tasks will include operating specialized equipment for microfabrication in our cleanroom, conducting precise calibration procedures, and troubleshooting device functionality. You will collaborate closely with researchers and students to design and manufacture devices and systems, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards. Additionally, you will be responsible for maintaining a well-organized laboratory environment, managing inventory, and documenting experimental procedures.

Skills and experience required

The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience in microfluidics and aerosol device   fabrication techniques and familiarity with cleanroom protocols. Proficiency in operating microfabrication-specific equipment such as lithography systems, etching tools, and deposition chambers is highly desirable. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential for successful troubleshooting and quality assurance. Additionally, the ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical concepts clearly is crucial. Prior experience with CAD software for micro-mechanical design and simulation would be advantageous.

As we work both independently and within a team, you’ll be flexible in your approach and attitude, with a client-oriented approach and able to prioritise to meet deadlines. Good communication and interpersonal skills are key.

Qualifications required

You will hold a minimum of A-levels, equivalent qualifications, or have equivalent proven experience. A recognised qualification in an appropriate subject at degree or HNC/HND level or equivalent, registration in an applicable registration body and/or IOSH Managing Safety or similar qualification is desirable.

Please view the job description and person specification for a full list of the duties and essential criteria.Please attach a personal statement showing clearly how your skills and experience match the Person Specification.

We regret that we are unable to offer UKVI sponsorship for this post; applicants will either hold UK Right to Work, or demonstrate access to UK Right to Work, before an offer is made.

Contact Details/Informal Enquiries: Giorgos Gkizelis, Technical Manager, [email protected]

Closing Date: 03 June 2024

Interview Date: TBC 

Reference Number: 057635

Date advert placed: 20 May 2024

Our vision is to transform lives: UH is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and building a diverse community. We welcome applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of their protected characteristics, and recognise there are different ways applicants may achieve the criteria in this document. We offer a range of employee benefits including generous annual leave, flexible location opportunities within the UK, discounted Sports Village memberships and free Active Staff sessions, personal and professional development and family-friendly policies. #GoHerts