Technical Specialist (Plasma Support)

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Technical Specialist (Plasma Support). This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide high‑level scientific and technical support within the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technical Services, based at the National Graphene Institute. You will work in a dynamic and inclusive environment, supporting world‑leading research and teaching in micro‑ and nanofabrication, with a particular focus on plasma‑based processes and cleanroom operations.

This is a full‑time, permanent role (35 hours per week). Due to the in‑person requirements of the post, hybrid working is not feasible.

You will be responsible for:

• Acting as the main point of contact for dry etching and deposition facilities, including ICP, RIE, ALD and CVD systems
• Maintaining, operating, repairing and training users on cleanroom and associated bench‑top equipment
• Providing expert advice, guidance and training to staff, students and external users in micro‑ and nanofabrication techniques
• Supporting the development and optimisation of novel cleanroom processes and ensuring they are documented and accessible
• Ensuring high standards of health and safety, compliance and service delivery within your area of specialism

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria :

• Proven experience managing dry etching and deposition facilities in a cleanroom environment
• Strong expertise in micro‑ and nanofabrication techniques such as photolithography, e‑beam lithography, wet processing and thin‑film deposition
• Practical experience with relevant characterisation techniques (e.g. SEM, AFM, ellipsometry or related methods)
• Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and deliver a high‑quality, customer‑focused service
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively

Desirable Criteria :

• Experience contributing to academic outputs or working with industrial partners
• Experience leading projects, managing budgets or supporting equipment procurement and installation
• Experience supervising staff, trainees or apprentices
• A PhD or advanced qualification in a relevant science or engineering discipline

We value technical excellence, professionalism and a commitment to continuous improvement as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:
• Generous employer pension contribution
• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
• Access to extensive training, development and career progression opportunities

For more information, please see
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here/.
You can also find information on Flexible and Hybrid working here:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/people/current-staff/flexible-and-hybrid-working/.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/news/display/?id=32905.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews
Name: Dr Kunal Lulla
Email Address: kunal.lulla@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries and administrative support
recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical and job portal support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.
Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.