At the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), we're developing the next generation of manufacturing technologies that help transform UK industry. As part of our Advanced Machining team, you'll play a key role in developing and optimising innovative laser processing solutions for some of the most technically demanding applications across aerospace, automotive, defence, rail, and other high-value sectors.
About MTC
The Manufacturing Technology Centre is one of the UK's leading research and technology organisations, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Working alongside world-class engineers, scientists and technicians, you'll have access to some of the most advanced manufacturing equipment in the world while contributing to technologies that help manufacturers innovate, improve productivity and remain globally competitive.
The Opportunity
As a Research Engineer – Laser Processing, you'll be at the heart of developing advanced laser machining technologies. This is a highly practical role where you'll spend significant time working directly with laser systems, tooling, components and measurement equipment, supporting projects from initial process trials through to final validation and delivery. [HR-013-F2_...h_20102026 ¦ Word]
You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop, test and optimise laser manufacturing processes, helping turn engineering challenges into robust industrial solutions.
What You'll Be Doing
Setting up, operating and supporting advanced laser processing equipment
Planning and conducting experimental trials to develop and optimise laser machining processes
Manufacturing and processing test pieces, demonstrators and customer components
Analysing experimental data and identifying opportunities for process improvement
Troubleshooting equipment, process and component-quality issues
Producing technical reports, presentations and project deliverables
Supporting the delivery of research and development programmes to quality, cost and schedule requirements
Contributing to the continuous improvement of equipment, methods and technical capability within the Laser Processing team
Working safely within specialist laser processing facilities and adhering to all relevant procedures and standards
What We're Looking For
Essential
Degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science or a related discipline
Practical engineering experience within manufacturing, R&D, laboratory or technical environments
Strong hands-on engineering skills and experience operating complex equipment
Experience planning experiments, analysing results and refining processes
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
Experience analysing manufacturing, measurement or experimental data
Excellent communication and technical reporting skills
A collaborative approach and commitment to health and safety
Desirable
Laser machining or laser materials processing experience
Knowledge of laser-material interactions and laser process optimisation
Experience with pulsed laser technologies (nanosecond, picosecond or femtosecond systems)
CNC, robotics, automation or multi-axis manufacturing experience
Metrology, inspection or surface characterisation experience
CAD/CAM knowledge
Experience working on industrial research and development projects
Understanding of laser safety and high-power laser environments
Please be aware that many roles working for MTC will be subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors including your nationality, any previous nationalities you have held, and your place of birth may limit those roles you can perform for the organisation.
All candidates must meet Right to Work in the UK criteria and achieve the required security and clearance requirements to undertake this role which will be shared with you upon application.