The University of Manchester
Technical Specialist (Quantum Materials and Device Characterisation)

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Technical Specialist (Quantum Materials and Device Characterisation)
We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive individual to join our team as a Technical Specialist (Quantum Materials and Device Characterisation) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, based at the Photon Science Institute.
This is a full-time (35 hours per week), permanent role, with mandatory in-person presence. Hybrid working is not feasible due to the post’s requirements.
You will be part of a dynamic technical operations team, providing specialist support for advanced experimental facilities. Your core focus will be on low-temperature cryogenic systems and high-frequency RF/microwave characterisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Operating and maintaining a low-temperature (<20 mK) dilution refrigerator for quantum device characterisation
- Designing, assembling, and operating advanced RF/microwave control and measurement systems (up to 40 GHz)
- Supporting complementary low-temperature photonic characterisation capabilities
- Providing expert advice, training, and technical support to staff, students, and external users
- Ensuring excellent service delivery, health and safety compliance, and continuous improvement within your area of specialism
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
About You
We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds. The following criteria will guide us:
Essential Criteria
- Experience operating low-temperature cryogenic systems
- Experience with RF/microwave control and measurement
- Hands-on experience in electronic characterisation of semiconductor devices
- Ability to write software for equipment control and data acquisition
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Desirable Criteria
- Experience characterising qubit devices
- Experience with high-frequency RF/microwave electronics (up to 40 GHz)
- Familiarity with semiconductor device design and fabrication
- Experience leading or supervising technical staff
- Experience managing projects, budgets, or equipment installations
While qualifications are valuable, technical excellence, adaptability, and a service-focused mindset are equally important.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Benefits
- Generous employer pension contribution
- 29 days annual leave + bank holidays + Christmas closure
- Access to extensive professional development and world-class research infrastructure
For more details: 🔗 staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/people/current-staff/flexible-and-hybrid-working 🔗 paper.li/Flexible-and-hybrid-working
Contact & Application Info
Enquiries about role, shortlisting, and interviews:
- Name: Professor Richard Curry / Dr Maddison Coke
- Email: richard.curry@manchester.ac.uk / maddison.coke@manchester.ac.uk
General and administrative enquiries: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk | JobSeekers Support
Applications close at midnight on the closing date. For full particulars, visit: 🔗 [Job specification details](offsite link)
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills