Job Advert for Graduate Technology Development Engineer
Following some recent success in securing funding to explore the development of an innovative approach to wave energy, 4c Engineering are seeking to hire a graduate technology development engineer for a 12 month contract. This is an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to gain invaluable experience in the field of renewable energy research. The placement has a mainly technical focus, working with the team to develop numerical simulations, analysis, physical models, and general technology development. However, in addition to the core technical remit, there is also an opportunity to gain some experience in the commercial side of an engineering consultancy, which is not often the case in entry-level graduate positions of this type. There is a possibility that at the end of the 12-month placement, the position may be converted into a permanent role.
Please see below for further details, including eligibility constraints.
Job Title: Graduate Technology Development Engineer
Location: Inverness, Scotland
Company: 4c Engineering (Highland Design Engineering Ltd)
Salary: £27,500 per annum
Contract: 12-month fixed term
Start Date: October 2024
Application Deadline: Wednesday 11th September
About Us:
4c Engineering is a forward-thinking engineering consultancy based in Inverness, Scotland. We focus the development of innovative technologies, with a particular specialism in wave energy conversion. Our expertise spans mechanical engineering, prototyping, and technology development, serving a range of sectors including marine energy, life sciences, and forestry.
Job Overview:
We are seeking a motivated and talented recent graduate to join us as Technology Development Engineer for a 12-month placement. This role centres on the research, development, and optimisation of Dielectric Fluid Generators (DFGs), a pioneering technology with significant potential in wave energy conversion systems.
You will collaborate closely with our engineering team and international partners, contributing to the design, testing, and integration of DFG prototypes. As the project progresses, you will help capture the knowledge gained, explore broader applications of the technology, and support market research and business development activities to extend the commercial impact of these innovations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research and Development:
- Enhance the design, testing, and optimisation of DFG prototypes.
- Develop numerical models to predict the performance of prototypes.
- Assess material options for use in DFG development.
- Prototyping and Testing
- Participate in workshops to develop optimised cell geometry.
- Construct and validate physical prototypes based on models.
- Develop and execute detailed test protocols; report findings.
- Refine prototypes through iterative testing.
- Collaboration, Communication & Commercialisation:
- Collaborate with international partners on project goals and insights.
- Maintain design logs and document all design iterations.
- Present findings to stakeholders and prepare final reports.
- There will also be an opportunity to contribute to the commercialisation of both DFG technology and the analytical tools developed during the placement period.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Education: Recent graduate with a degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
Technical Skills:
- Engineering Software:
- Proficiency in CAD for mechanical and electromechanical systems.
- Familiar with use of FEA for simulations and stress analysis; CFD experience is a plus, as is experience with MATLAB/Simulink for numerical modelling and data analysis.
- Material Science and Selection:
- Knowledge of material science, particularly polymers and fluids.
- Experience in material testing and validation.
- Prototyping and Testing:
- Hands-on experience in building and testing prototypes.
- Proficiency in developing and implementing test protocols.
- Data Analysis and Reporting:
- Strong skills in data collection, processing, and interpretation.
- Ability to document technical findings and prepare reports.
Non-Technical Skills:
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Commercial Awareness: Interest in market analysis and business development.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive training in advanced engineering software and technologies.
- Professional networking opportunities through industry events.
- Mentorship and career development from experienced engineers.
- Involvement in innovative projects with environmental impact.
- Exposure to business development, bridging technical skills and commercial acumen.
How to Apply:
Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your interest in the position and how your skills and experience align with the role to info@4cengineering.co.uk by the application deadline.
Funding and Eligibility:
This placement is part of the Technology Placement Programme (TPP), funded by the Northern Innovation Hub (NIH) as part of the City-Region Deal. To be eligible, candidates must have graduated within the last four years and have no more than 12 months of graduate-level work experience. The graduate must be based in the Highland Council area for the duration of the placement, working from the 4c Engineering office on the Inverness Campus. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
