Mechanical and Motorsport Technician

Technical Services at the University of Derby underpins the key activities of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and innovation. As an applied University we value the importance of practical work and experimental learning. Our highly skilled Technicians from across all areas of the organisation have a vital part they play in delivering the very best student experience, developing research activity and contributing to innovation. Central to the success of our Technical Service is collaboration, teamwork and knowledge sharing.  

Technical colleagues support a wide range of specialist resources across the College of Science and Engineering. Working independently and in collaboration with academics, our technicians play an important role in advancing the work in many of our academic disciplines. We support specialist areas such as laboratories, workshops and controlled environments. We also provide specialist support for Research Centres such as the Institute for Innovation in Sustainable Engineering (IISE), East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIOT) and the Nuclear Skills Academy (NSA).

As a signatory of the national Technician Commitment programme, the University has pledged to support the visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability of Technical colleagues.

Many of our highly skilled technical staff members hold PhDs and Degrees in disciplines associated with the specialisms they deliver. An increasing number of our technicians have been recognised for their contribution to teaching and student support as Fellows and Associate Fellows of Advance HE. A number also hold professional accreditation status through organisations such as the Science Council, which establishes knowledge, understanding and competence.  

The School of Engineering is seeking to appoint a Mechanical and Motorsport Technician to provide technical support for research and teaching activities related to mechanical and motorsport processes within the College of Science and Engineering.

As a member of our technical team, you will be responsible for day-to-day operations which include training, equipment setup, and supervising students in the labs. You will ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, order consumables and equipment, and organize the disposal of hazardous waste. Additionally, you will liaise with suppliers and service engineers to maintain and service laboratory equipment.

Working closely with academics and members of technical team you will provide specialist support relating to research and teaching activities, working across several laboratories with a high degree of autonomy. You will be able to provide full technical support to students and staff including training and advice on the appropriate use of resources.

You should hold qualification(s) equivalent to HND in either Mechanical Engineering or Motorsport Engineering, or have comparable knowledge and transferable skills gained through professional experience.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrable specialist technical experience gained working in the motorsport or mechanical environment, preferably within a research or educational setting. You should be skilled in the use of standard machine tools or multivehicle workshop equipment and have a good knowledge and understanding of workshop health and safety and relevant regulations.

1. Provide instruction and expertise to students and staff about use of technical equipment/facilities (working independently without academic or technical guidance), to help them work safely and effectively.
2. Support class activities, including practical work: emphasis on providing challenge, constructive criticism, and support to student learning.
3. Provide technical input to assist academic staff with the development of written and on-line resources.
4. Induct new staff and students into facilities, providing training on all aspects of their use including health and safety.
5. Participate in processes which monitor and enhance compliance by staff and students in matters relating to Health and Safety at Work regulations in the use of equipment and materials.
6. Resolve technical inquiries which can be solved within the parameters of the existing technical infrastructure.
7. Contribute to the work of the College technical team, taking on such duties and responsibilities as delegated by the line manager.