Mechanical Assembly Technician - Cleanroom

About the Role

VACGEN Ltd is seeking a skilled Mechanical Assembly Technician to join their Cleanroom manufacturing team located in Hailsham, East Sussex (BN27 4EL). This is a full-time, permanent contract role offering a competitive salary based on experience. The position involves working in a cutting-edge manufacturing environment, assembling highly specialized ultra-high vacuum technology products employed by prestigious clients such as NASA, CERN, and the European Space Agency.

The role focuses on the construction of complex, precise Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV) manipulation and sample-handling assemblies where precision, cleanliness, and acute attention to detail are paramount. This opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys intricate, hands-on engineering tasks and takes pride in the craftsmanship of assembly work.

Key Responsibilities

• Assembling sophisticated mechanical and electrical components guided by detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
• Constructing advanced UHV manipulation systems and sub-assemblies.
• Executing precision hand-fitting and meticulous mechanical assembly operations.
• Performing specialist UHV-compatible wiring soldering and electrical testing procedures.
• Adhering strictly to Cleanroom cleanliness standards to ensure components meet stringent contamination criteria.
• Inspecting assemblies to guarantee compliance with quality standards and engineering specifications.
• Supporting the transition of products from New Product Introduction (NPI) phases into routine manufacturing.
• Developing, reviewing, and enhancing manufacturing instructions, assembly guides, and relevant technical documentation.
• Accurately maintaining test data, quality records, and serialization information for products.
• Collaborating closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to resolve technical challenges.
• Occasionally traveling to customer sites for scheduled meetings or events when necessary.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated practical expertise in precision manufacturing or complex engineering assembly within a high-technology or Cleanroom environment. You will be comfortable interpreting technical drawings and specifications, with a strong focus on quality and cleanliness standards.

• Proven experience in high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering, or Cleanroom settings.
• Hands-on mechanical assembly and fine fitting skills.
• Experience with complex, low-volume, or bespoke engineered products.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and assembly instructions confidently.
• Knowledge of specialist wiring and product testing methods.
• Proven adherence to strict quality and cleanliness protocols in manufacturing.
• Capable of working meticulously and methodically while meeting deadlines.
• Educational background including Level 3 Mechanical Engineering qualifications or equivalent (HNC, HND, Engineering degree, or apprenticeship).

Preferred experience areas include Ultra-High Vacuum or vacuum technologies, UHV-compatible devices, electron or ion optics, precision hand-fitting, specialist electrical wiring, comprehensive product testing and troubleshooting, New Product Introduction, and Cleanroom manufacturing processes.

Why Join VACGEN?

You will contribute to products involved in groundbreaking scientific and technological advances, including space exploration and particle physics. Unlike repetitive assembly tasks, here you will engage with varied and challenging engineering builds within a supportive, inclusive team operating a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where your skills are truly valued.

VACGEN is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusivity. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, overseas applications and agency inquiries cannot be considered.

Benefits

• 25 days annual holiday entitlement.
• Private medical insurance.
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Advanced manufacturing environment with opportunities for ongoing professional development and skill enhancement.