Technical Specialist (Whittle Laboratory)

The Whittle Laboratory in West Cambridge is a purpose-built facility for the development of aeroengine and associated technologies. The Laboratory contains highly sophisticated experimental facilities; these include a 1MW variable density wind tunnel, more than 15 rotating turbine and compressor test facilities and a range of new heat transfer tunnels. The Whittle Laboratory supports a range of experimental measurement capabilities; these include laser anemometry, infrared cameras, hot-wires and gas sampling equipment.

The Whittle laboratory leads in the field of accelerated research and technology development, and is the National Centre for Propulsion and Power. In these experiments, advanced and turbomachinery-specific CNC techniques (for rapid blade and test rig machining) have been developed by a close partnership between technicians and researchers. The skills of the Whittle Laboratory technicians, particularly high-quality turbomachinery related CAD-CAM skills, are critical to future of the Lab and its ability to decarbonise the propulsion and power sectors. 

We are looking to appoint a Technical Specialist to join the existing team of technicians who will be able to engage with and support staff, students and external companies in the design and manufacture of highly specialist equipment and apparatus as well as develop and deploy specialist manufacturing techniques and machining methods to enable rapid research turnarounds. You will be responsible for scheduling and assigning workload to the Whittle Laboratory technicians to meet project delivery deadlines, as well as provide cover for the Laboratory Manager during periods of absence.

The successful applicant will hold a degree in a relevant research area/ Level 6 vocational qualifications or possess an equivalent level of practical experience ,in particular relating to specialised workshop activities and equipment. You will have specialist knowledge and skills in conventional and CNC machining as well as a good knowledge of specialist manufacturing software (CAD/CAM). You will have strong written and verbal communication skills with proven experience of dealing with a variety of research projects and communicating research results to a wide variety of audiences as well as experience of implementing health and safety requirements within a research environment.  Previous experience of providing training to groups and individuals is also a requirement for this role.

If you think you are the right candidate for the role, we would love to hear from you.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 5 years in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

The closing date for applications is Sunday 9 August 2026.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and if you have any queries regarding either the vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR Office in the first instance on hr-office@eng.cam.ac.uk or 01223 332615

Please quote reference NM50348 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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