Technical Lead

Description:

The University of Sheffield is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Technical Lead in Additive Manufacturing (AM) to join its AMRC North West team, based in Samlesbury, Blackburn. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to pioneering research and development in collaboration with major industry players across the aerospace, automotive, construction sectors, and SMEs in the North West.

As a Technical Lead, you will play a crucial role in mentoring a team of project engineers and ensuring the successful delivery of research and application projects within the Additive Manufacturing group. The work will span from process development and material characterisation to AM simulation, monitoring, and process control.

You will help establish a forward-looking research portfolio and technology roadmap for AM technologies, including but not limited to Laser Powder Bed Fusion, Wire Arc Directed Energy Deposition, and Additive Friction Stir Deposition. You will also be responsible for advancing the integration of online/offline monitoring tools, modelling multi-scale AM processes, and utilising 3D polymer printing to support a diverse array of projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver high-quality research projects aimed at advancing metallic AM technology.

• Develop and utilise AM process monitoring and control tools for enhanced reliability and productivity.

• Design and implement multi-scale AM process models and simulations.

• Apply 3D polymer printing techniques to support internal and client projects.

• Evaluate and propose new AM processes and select equipment based on cost-effectiveness, market demands, and manufacturability.

• Mentor and guide project engineers, identifying their training and development needs.

• Collect and analyse technical data, producing outcomes that can influence partners, policymakers, and stakeholders.

• Present research findings professionally to internal and external collaborators.

• Review and provide feedback on technical reports and project documentation.

• Plan activities to meet reporting deadlines, ensure deliverables for stakeholders, and coordinate with shop floor staff for seamless project transitions.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Honours degree in engineering or equivalent industry experience

• Willingness to travel

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability and motivation to acquire new technical skills on the job

• Effective problem-solving and long-term planning capabilities

• Proficient in AM software and hardware (e.g., CAD, CAM, inspection tools)

• Self-sufficiency in metallic AM project delivery

• Leadership capabilities to inspire and guide engineering teams

Desirable:

• PhD in a relevant subject

• Knowledge of laser welding, CNC machining, and CMM systems

Work Environment & Benefits:

• Grade: 7

• Hours: 35 per week

• Duration: Permanent

• Reports To: Technical Fellow

• Direct Reports: Project Engineers

• Generous annual leave (minimum 41 days including public holidays)

• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities

• Extensive pension scheme and family-friendly policies

• Retail and travel discounts, professional recognition schemes, and access to mentorship programs

• Dedicated support networks and resources for inclusion, wellbeing, and personal development