Technical Specialist

Role Description

Role

The Department of Electronic Engineering is currently involved in two projects that will be undertaking experimental trials.  The Mobile Access North Yorkshire (MANY), funded by UK Government will be undertaking trials of 5G wireless communications from the Department’s Helikite system.  The HiQ project will be developing a quantum communications payload, based on free space optical communications, to be used with different forms of aerial platform. 

A fixed term role is available for a technical specialist to integrate into the two teams developing the systems for both projects, which includes academics and researchers from both the Departments of Electronic Engineering and Physics. 

Main responsibilities:

• Take a lead in the design of bespoke electronic, control and electro-mechanical systems using refined skills and knowledge to interpret and implement the technical requirements of experimental work, based on 5G wireless communications and free space quantum communications and other bespoke electronic, control and electro-mechanical systems as needed.
• Design, construct scientific experiments and equipment using specialist relevant knowledge and skills.
• To collaborate and work alongside colleagues to plan, organise and control activities so that the communication systems and other bespoke electronic systems are delivered to a high standard.
• Understand, promote and apply relevant COSHH, risk assessments and Departmental health and safety protocols, ensuring procedures are followed at all times. Take on specific safety roles where required.
• Management of a budget, monitoring resource usage, negotiating with suppliers for a range of items, including specialist parts and equipment.
• Present technical information within own area of expertise at meetings, conferences etc. and take part in discussions to inform on scientific advancement.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

You should hold a degree or equivalent in Electronic Engineering/Physics or appropriate significant experience, RSci/REng or willingness to work towards these or equivalent professional qualification. The role requires in depth and current theoretical and practical knowledge of wireless communications.  You should have a proven track record in the application of the technical skills associated with the specialism and an ability to work independently with initiative, using problem solving and analytical skills, along with ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner and communicate with others.  You should have demonstrable, in depth experience in development of hardware and software for research equipment. The role will involve training others in laboratory techniques and use of complex equipment and applying knowledge to improve service of bespoke electronic system design.  You should have experience of working on own initiative and writing reports for managers in electronic system design.  The role requires good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with staff, students and external stakeholders and a flexible attitude towards work, willingness to respond to time led demands.  You must have a willingness to travel for the purposes of the projects. 

Salary: Grade 6.1

Contract: 12 months fixed term, 37 hours per week

Interview date: 10 May 2021

For informal enquiries: please contact Professor David Grace at david.grace@york.ac.uk

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