Prototype Development Engineer
Competitive, dependent on experience.
About Thermofluidics
Thermofluidics (www.thermofluidics.com) spun out from the University of Cambridge in 2006 to develop a novel heat-engine technology without moving parts. The Non-Inertive-Feedback Thermofluidic Engine (NIFTE) uses low temperature waste heat, or heat from the sun to pump water. In 2009, we complemented the NIFTE with a second invention known as a Double-Acting Hydraulic Ram (DAHR) pump, based on the historic hydraulic ram pump, to extend our capabilities to deep groundwater abstraction and surface pressurisation for filtration and drip-irrigation.
Now based in Oxford, we have a rapidly expanding project portfolio aimed at renewably powered water provision on a variety of scales, and circulating water in building heating systems across the world. We are now looking to expand our team, complementing our thermo-fluids research expertise with product development know-how and experience.
Brief Job summary
The role will involve collaborative development of prototypes in two new technology areas: a novel water-pumping heat-engine without moving parts and a double-acting hydraulic ram pump for lifting deep ground water and pressurising it for surface use. The position will involve working with colleagues and students to prepare these for field trials in various locations around the world. It may also involve commissioning prototypes at field trial locations and reporting back from the field.
Qualifications/Experience
We are looking to recruit a top graduate engineer or physical scientist with 3+ years of experience (or HND with relevant experience) who will thrive in a start-up environment, work to agreed deadlines and report back to the technical team. The ideal applicant will be a self-starter with a track record of hands-on practical project work. We are particularly interested in experience in the latter stages of product development and the design of production ready prototypes aimed at plastics moulding and thermoforming and aluminium sand and die casting.
Drafting experience with 3D CAD packages (particularly SolidWorks) and/or proficiency in data acquisition and analysis using tools such as N.I. Labview, Matlab, Scilab, Python or equivalent will be considered advantageous. A willingness to travel is essential and foreign languages will be considered advantageous.
How to apply
Please email your CV with a cover letter explaining your interest in the position via the 'APPLY NOW' button. Please include the names and contact details of two referees. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview during November.
Other details
There may be an option to take up this position either as normal full-time paid employment, or as a fully-funded DPhil studentship in the University of Oxford Department of Engineering Science (with top-up for experienced candidates as appropriate). The terms and conditions of each option will be discussed during interview.
Company address: Centre for Innovation and Enterprise, Oxford University Begbroke Science Park, Begbroke, Oxford, OX5 1PF.
Closing date for applications is Friday 2nd November 2012