School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, Faculty of EAIT
Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 2 years
Base salary will be in the range $89,861.38 - $96,402.32 + 17% Superannuation (HEW Level 6)
Based at our St Lucia Campus
The Senior Research Technician will be responsible for performing all experimental activities associated with the production of samples in this project. This involves creating new compositions by blending and mixing metal powders, preparing and operating a L-PBF system to fabricate samples followed by characterising the samples in terms of metallurgical qualities (such as microstructure and tensile properties). In particular, the Senior Research Technician will take a leadership role in safely designing and performing complex experimental tasks. They will report regularly to the industry partner and other project stakeholders and perform other experimental activities as required to ensure successful project outcomes. They will also support junior researchers and students in technical training on experimental equipment.
Key responsibilities will include:
Operation of L-PBF Equipment: Responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the SLM Solutions 125HL L-PBF system, including machine cleaning and maintenance.
Titanium Alloy Development: Applies technical expertise in metallurgy to develop new titanium alloys using advanced additive manufacturing techniques.
Experiment Management:
Oversees all aspects of experimental activities: from powder procurement and feedstock blending to tensile testing and microscopy for metallurgical analysis.
Ensures accurate record-keeping, including comprehensive notes on experimental setups and outcomes.
Safety and Maintenance:
Ensures the safe handling of metal powders and the development of safety protocols.
Responsible for waste disposal, sample storage, and routine maintenance of equipment to ensure high standards of safety and performance.
Research Protocol Development: Assists in the development of research protocols, particularly focusing on quality control and repeatable cleaning procedures.
Collaboration and Reporting:
Contributes to research outputs through reports, manuscripts, and presentations at meetings.
Engages in joint authorship and represents project findings in collaboration with industry partners.
Team Support and Leadership:
Assists with the training and development of junior staff, including engineers, scientists, and students.
Participates in designing more complex research studies.
Miscellaneous Duties: Completes other duties as assigned by supervisors, contributing broadly to the success of research initiatives.
As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world.
Everyone here has a role to play. As a member of our professional staff cohort, you will be actively involved in working towards our vision of a better world. By supporting the academic endeavour across teaching, research, and the student life, you will have the opportunity to contribute to activities that have a lasting impact on our community.
Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:
26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks paid primary caregiver leave
17% superannuation contributions
17.5% annual leave loading
Access to flexible working arrangements including flexible start/finish times, purchased leave, and a condensed fortnight
Health and wellness discounts – fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family
UQ Study for Staff
On campus childcare options
Cheap parking (from just $5.75 a day)
Salary packaging options
Completion of a degree in Materials Engineering or a related field with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and training.
Demonstrated expertise in research techniques including metal 3D printing, alloy development, and material characterisation.
Advanced knowledge and experience in all technical aspects of L-PBF additive manufacturing, from handling metal powders to equipment operation, maintenance, and part removal.
Proficiency in metallography, tensile testing, and other material property characterisation methods, with strong knowledge in metallurgy and materials science.
Significant experience working in research teams, conducting experiments, and reporting outcomes to external stakeholders, including industry partners.
Strong technical capabilities in operating L-PBF and metallography equipment to prepare research samples.
Comprehensive understanding of research safety protocols, legislative requirements, and procedures for waste disposal, labelling, and risk assessment.
Well-developed problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and work independently or as part of a team. Experience in mentoring or training is a plus.
The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, mandatory immunisations, etc.
Work Rights:
Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Michael Bermingham via m.bermingham@uq.edu.au. For application queries, please contact talent@uq.edu.au stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:
Cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section
Resume
UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who do not meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.
We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We are committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.
Applications close Sunday, 10 November 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-44610).
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