Technical Specialist

FTE: 1 fte (working 37 hours per week)

Salary: UH6 £32,296 pa to £34,866 pa with potential to progress to £37,999 pa by annual increments on achieving designated skills and experience

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, Hatfield  

We are excited to announce a new role in the School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science! This is a unique opportunity to be part of the Technical Services Group and make a difference in the education of our students, support of our academics, and research in the field of Materials Science, Strength of Materials, and Composite Layup.

Main duties and responsibilities

The role of Technical Specialist in the Materials workshops is a challenging and rewarding position. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing technical support for teaching and research activities within the School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science. They will be responsible for conducting tensile tests on materials, using microscopes and X-ray diffraction to examine and analyse materials, preparing samples for testing, and interpreting and communicating test results.

In addition to these technical duties, the Technical Specialist will be responsible for maintaining, calibrating, and ensuring the proper functioning of laboratory equipment. They will oversee and monitor testing procedures, maintain accurate records of all testing and inspection activities, and assist with the development and implementation of quality control procedures. The role will also involve ensuring equipment is in good condition, preparing materials and equipment for practical classes, and adhering to all relevant health and safety regulations. They will assist with the general management and housekeeping of workshops and handle the ordering and maintenance of stock levels and minor equipment as required.

Skills and experience required

The ideal candidate would have proven work experience in a laboratory or materials testing environment. They would have a good understanding of materials science and engineering principles and be familiar with industry standards and testing procedures. Essential skills include familiarity with tensile testing equipment, microscopes, X-ray diffraction, or metallographic grinding and polishing techniques. The candidate would have a high standard of accuracy, neatness, and safe practice, and be able to perform precise tests and measurements while analysing data and interpreting test results. They would have an understanding of Health and Safety processes and be able to produce activity-based Risk Assessments. Additionally, they should have a positive and flexible attitude, be a good team player, possess professional demeanour and a willingness to learn new skills. 

Qualifications required

Minimum of a Degree in STEM subject or related technical subject or equivalent or equivalent work experience.

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, g.gkizelis@herts.ac.uk

Closing Date: 12 March 2025

Interview Date: TBC 

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button.  

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