"Technical Manager (Helium Liquefier)"

Technical Manager (Helium Liquefier)

University of Sheffield - School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Location:SheffieldSalary:£38,784 to £47,389Hours:Part TimeContract Type:PermanentPlaced On:13th August 2025Closes:22nd August 2025Job Ref:1439

Job description:

Overview

Working under the direction of the School Technical Manager, you will manage the School’s Helium Liquefier facility, providing technical knowledge and skills, to enable the ongoing operations of the Liquefier.

The facility produces approximately 80,000 liquid litres per annum, which supports the low temperature research in the department. The helium liquefier is a complex process which liquefies recovered helium gas from research laboratories, the liquid is subsequently re-used in low temperature research and the resultant gas is recovered, stored and re-liquefied.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day running of the helium recovery and supply service.
• Enable the continued use of the helium liquefier. To ascertain liquid helium requirements of research groups and to distribute liquid helium and other cryogens as required.
• Manage the billing and financial reporting of the Helium Liquefier Facility.
• To repair cryogenic equipment and advise customers on the safe use of cryogens.
• Provide regular updates on progress of construction/repair to customers, recommending and agreeing any necessary modifications.
• Where required, consult with external organisations to develop solutions and identify suitable materials.
• Undertake repairs and maintenance servicing of apparatus and equipment to ensure its ongoing operation and viability, planning and scheduling general maintenance to equipment and maintaining appropriate levels of stock.
• Contribute to a team that provides manufacturing and repair capability to the department and to National and International research projects.
• Oversee the monitoring of liquid nitrogen levels.
• Maintain and record gas cylinder stocks and order as and when required.
• Lead the schools Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) compliance.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.