Senior Technical Officer - Microfluidics and Aerosol Instrumentation

FTE: 1.0fte (working 37 hours per week)

Duration of Contract: Permanent

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, Hatfield

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 a new £100M Building "SPECTRA" and multiple multimillion-pound research grants. We offer a wide range of degrees including Physics, Robotics & AI, Computer Science, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering. In terms of size for these 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 Senior Technical Officer in Microfluidics and Aerosol Instrumentation, your primary responsibilities will revolve around managing the daily operations of the laboratories. Your daily tasks will include operating specialised equipment for microfabrication in our cleanroom and labs (training will be provided), conducting precise calibration procedures, and troubleshooting device functionality. You will collaborate closely with researchers and students to design and help 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 fabrication techniques and basic familiarity with cleanroom protocols. Proficiency in operating microfabrication-specific equipment such as microscopes, lithography systems, etching tools, and deposition chambers is 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. You’ll be flexible in your approach and attitude to team and workload requirements, with a client-oriented approach and able to prioritise meeting deadlines. Good communication and interpersonal skills are key.

Qualifications required

You will hold a minimum of A-levels or equivalent qualifications or have equivalent proven experience. A recognized qualification in an appropriate subject at degree or HND/NVQ level or equivalent is desirable.

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

Internal applicants – please ensure you apply via your employee self-service portal.

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: Aaqib Ayub, Technical Team Leader (Research), a.ayub5@herts.ac.uk

Closing Date: 22 February 2026

Interview Date: TBC

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