Robotics Manager

Job Introduction

This opportunity lies within our specialist Remote Engineering Technology business area. The role is to provide engineering and scientific laboratory support to on-going research and development projects associated with the advanced teleoperation of remote handling systems and the need to move towards autonomous and intelligent systems for operational nuclear plants and the decommissioning of the UK’s nuclear legacy.

The work includes the development and integration of robotics related technologies such as end effectors, grippers, autonomous control systems, advanced and intuitive human machine interfaces, machine vision, object recognition, domain modelling and sensor fusion.

The NNL is working with nuclear end users and a number of leading academic institutions throughout the UK with the aim of developing innovative robotic systems to a high Technology Readiness Level.

The role will require frequent UK travel and occasional European travel.

Role Responsibility

To technically lead and direct research programmes in the specialist area of Robotics and Autonomous Systems. The successful applicant will be required to:

• Work with the end users, technology providers, SME`s and academics to develop work packages to deliver end user, which satisfies regulatory requirements.
• Lead a team of engineers, academics, scientists and technicians to deliver work programmes to time and budget.
• Technically peer review robotics and autonomous systems programmes.
• Provide support to customers, whilst interacting with regulatory bodies, such as the NII and EA.
• Coordinate fundamental research projects related to Robotics and Autonomous Systems within academia or industry.
• Develop customer relationships beyond those already in the team.
•Promote the innovative use of advanced technologies and development of engineered solutions to a range of robotic and teleoperational challenges.
•Innovative the integration of technologies to satisfy end user requirements.
•Delivery of a program of development trials on a range of teleoperable components and systems, which includes:
• Preparation of safety paperwork associated with experimental programme.
• Undertaking small and large-scale trials, involving proprietary and bespoke robotics hardware and test rig equipment.

The Ideal Candidate

Essential Skills/Qualifications
• Postgraduate degree or PhD in a related discipline, or relevant level of experience.
• Able to provide technical leadership within the specialist area of Robotics and Autonomous Systems.
• Proven experience of leading work packages and negotiating with customers.
• Proven track record of obtaining research grant funding.
• Good communication skills, ability to lead and to work well in teams, self-motivated and pro-active in approach.

About the Company

We play a key role in the UK and global nuclear industry. That means reducing the cost of clean-up and decommissioning, maintaining critical skills and attracting talented new people to the industry. We're the only UK organisation with the skills, facilities and expertise to provide technical support to all aspects of the nuclear industry. What's more, we pride ourselves on offering quality, value and service to every one of our customers.

National Nuclear Laboratory