Technical Officer / Senior Technical Officer (Automation and Robotics)

The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering is seeking a Technical Officer or Senior Technical Officer to bolster its automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing capabilities. This pivotal role focuses on providing high-level technical support for the Industrial Robotics laboratory within the new Polaris building while contributing to the broader experimental and research goals of the University.

Core Responsibilities

The appointee will be a cornerstone of the School’s technical team, ensuring the seamless operation of laboratories for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research students. Key duties include:

• Technical Support & Maintenance: Operating and maintaining advanced automation, robotic, and testing equipment. This includes managing laboratory preparation, overseeing equipment installation, and performing preventative maintenance.
• Teaching & Mentoring: Assisting academic staff in designing and delivering laboratory classes. The role involves direct instruction, supervising project sessions (particularly capstone projects), and mentoring early-career technical staff and student demonstrators.
• Innovation & Strategy: Contributing to the redevelopment of technical curriculum content, specifically offering expertise in advanced manufacturing systems and innovative measurement methods.
• Administration & Safety: Championing Health and Safety protocols, performing risk assessments, and managing SOPs. The officer will also handle procurement, inventory management, and waste disposal.
• Digital Integration: Utilizing the University’s cloud-based learning platform (Loop) to support teaching and staying current with emerging digital manufacturing technologies.

Candidate Profile

The School is looking for a flexible, communicative professional who can build credibility across all levels of the institution.

Essential Qualifications:

• Technical Officer: An Honours Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Mechanical Engineering.
• Senior Technical Officer: A Master’s Degree (NFQ Level 9) in Mechanical Engineering.
• Specialized Knowledge: Proficiency in programming and operating industrial automation systems and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
• Soft Skills: Strong IT skills, a deep understanding of workshop health and safety legislation, and the ability to manage tight deadlines and project deliverables.

Desirable Attributes: Preference will be given to candidates with at least four years of relevant experience. Ideally, applicants should have a background in supporting teaching or training environments and a proactive interest in technology-assisted learning platforms.

Institutional Impact

This role is not merely about equipment maintenance; it is a collaborative position designed to drive technical innovation. The successful candidate will liaise with various University services—such as Digital Technology Solutions and Health and Safety—and represent the School in outreach programs. By bridging the gap between theoretical engineering and practical application, the Technical Officer ensures the School remains at the forefront of modern manufacturing education.

Salary Scale:

Technical Officer / Senior Technical Officer - €41,736 - €72,655 refer to DCU Payscales for the applicable payscale.

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