"Technical Manager"

Join the pioneering Hollow Core Fibre Research Group at the University of Southampton. We are a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians working together to push the boundaries of optical fibre technology, through innovative research on hollow core fibres (HCFs). Exploiting collaborations with a host of industry partners we look to develop novel optical fibres that bring progress to society.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Technical Manager to lead the operations of a cutting-edge hollow core fibre fabrication facility. This is a unique opportunity to manage a team of talented technicians, support world-leading research, and drive innovation in optical fibre technology.

As Technical Manager, you will oversee the operation and development of specialist equipment including a drawing tower and glass working lathe, ensuring the facility remains at the forefront of research and industrial collaboration. The position is funded until December 2027, with a strong possibility of renewal beyond that.

Your activity will support the fabrication of novel optical preforms and fibres, including glass preform manufacture, optical fibre drawing, process optimisation and equipment maintenance. The project will involve a close interaction with the design and research teams to successfully transfer novel research ideas into manufacturing.

As part of our project team, you will:

• Manage and maintain advanced fibre fabrication equipment and cleanroom processes.
• Lead and develop a team of technical staff, ensuring high-quality support for research projects.
• Plan and implement major technical upgrades and strategic projects.
• Develop and enforce standard operating procedures for experimental processes.
• Provide expert technical training and advice to staff and students.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders to enhance facility capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Oversee procurement, stock control, and budget management.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Graduate degree or equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field, or substantial industry experience in a relevant sector (10+ years).
• Proven experience in cleanroom-based processes and fibre fabrication.
• Strong project and people management skills, with demonstrable previous line managing experience.
• Ability to apply specialist knowledge to complex technical challenges.
• Excellent planning, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A strong desire to learn and grow professionally.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Practical knowledge of optical fibres and their properties.
• Experience with specialty optical fibres, ideally hollow core fibres.
• Experience in the use of a glass-working lathe and/or a fibre draw tower.
• Knowledge of CAD and basic workshop tools.
• Proficiency with basic optical test equipment.
• Experience with test and measurement lab automation and scripting experience in relevant environments (e.g. Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB).

What We Offer:

• A supportive team environment with colleagues committed to your growth and success.
• Opportunities to work on high-impact research projects that can change our world with leading scientific and industrial organisations worldwide.

This position is ideal for a candidate eager to deepen their expertise, develop high-impact technical and leadership skills, and gain mastery in advanced fibre-optic fabrication techniques. A key aspect of this role involves mentoring and managing junior colleagues, offering a valuable opportunity for personal growth through team leadership and skills development. As the role evolves, it is expected to become increasingly autonomous, requiring the ability to self-organise, manage complex projects, and align your work with the strategic goals of the wider research and technical team.

To informally discuss this position, please contact Francesco Poletti, fp@soton.ac.uk.