• Engineer, Senior Engineer - 2 Posts: MERL has two technical vacancies at Engineer and Senior Engineer level. The description of these roles is given below and we would welcome your application if you meet the requirements listed.

• Senior Scientist/Engineer - 2 posts: MERL has two technical vacancies at Senior Scientist Level ranging from a Post Doctorate with limited industrial experience to a person with a PhD and a thorough, industrial experience of the effects of oil and gas exposures on polymers in oil field applications. Equivalent industrial experience will be considered in place of a PhD.

• Technican: The vacancy is described below and we would welcome your application if you meet the requirements listed.

The immediate vacancies are described below. Candidates invited for an interview will be given a more detailed job specification

Engineer, Senior Engineer - 2 Posts (Ref W210)
There is an immediate need for two engineers to work on aerospace, renewable energy (wind and tidal turbines) and oil & gas related projects, to support MERL's activities. The work will include mechanical testing and analysis of composite materials and structures, adhesives, bonded joints and other polymers. Engineers are expected to work on a variety of projects and technical areas, until their strengths have been identified, and progress to the Senior Engineer level. They are required to have a Bachelors or Masters Degree in a relevant discipline. Any previous experience in testing of composite materials would be an advantage. Senior Engineers are expected to work on and manage projects and develop business within MERL’s client base. A Masters Degree in relevant discipline and previous industrial experience or a PhD and some industrial experience is a requirement for this position.

Senior Scientist/Engineer - 2 posts (Ref W209)
Our work is varied in nature and Senior engineers/scientists are expected to have a clear area of their own specialisation in line with MERL’s core business. Training will be given in other area areas of MERL’s core business. The current vacancies are focussed towards MERL’s oil and gas laboratories identifying the effects of different fluids on polymers or the testing of components under high pressure and/or high temperature exposures. The work may also include mechanical testing aspects to evaluate the effects of load and post-exposure on materials. A PhD in a relevant discipline (particularly chemistry, material science or engineering) or relevant industrial experience is a requirement. . Senior Engineers/Scientists are expected to work on a number of projects, to plan, implement, conduct, interpret and deliver the work to clients. The work will be laboratory based and supported by colleagues. It is expected that the applicant will be capable of being given early project responsibility, managing projects and developing business within MERL’s client base.

Technican (Ref W409)
This is a key role to support the very varied requirements and well-equipped laboratories at MERL. MERL has state of the art materials test equipment from Zwick and MTS along with environmental chambers and strain measuring equipment. We have facilities with numerous pressure vessels for evaluating the effects of gases and fluids on polymers. We also have facilities for mixing and moulding small rubber components and test pieces. Other capabilities include a small workshop, CAD packages and bespoke testing equipment. This position is expected to work with others and be trained to use and support all of this equipment and to offer support in the upkeep of the general facilities.

Application procedure
For each of these positions please submit an up to date CV with a covering letter stating which position you are applying for, why you are applying, an indication of your current salary and notice period.

Please send this information to recruitment@merl-ltd.co.uk or by mail to:

Mrs Debbie Frame, MERL Ltd, Wilbury Way, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 0TW.

Please mark your Email or envelope as ‘Confidential’. All applications will be treated in confidence.

If you are selected for an interview we will send you a more detailed job specification.The start date for suitable applications is immediate. Please note that to be considered you must provide evidence that you are eligible to work in the UK.

Benefits
MERL offers competitive salaries and benefits including pension contributions and after a qualifying period annual bonus, private medical insurance and opportunity for share ownership.

MERL is recognised as an Investors in People employer.