Scientific Instrumentation Technician

Core mission

The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research facility for fundamental research using neutrons. Every year we host over 2000 visits by scientists, who come to the Institute to carry out world-class research.

Within the Nuclear & Particle Physics group, you will join a team of four technicians whose role is to provide technical support to ILL scientists and external users.

Your tasks

• Maintain, troubleshoot, repair and configure equipment for SuperSUN, including cryogenic and scientific equipment.
• Assemble and ensure the smooth running of vacuum systems for SuperSUN; Install, connect and repair pump sets, including carrying out leak tests.
• Assemble, install and improve precision mechanical assemblies, both in the workshop and on site.
• Ensure that equipment is available and properly maintained to enable the successful performance of scientific experiments.
• Optionally: Manufacture or modify (metal, ceramic and plastic) mechanical parts using conventional machine tools (lathe, milling machine).

Your profile

• You have a Level 4–6 qualification (e.g. BTEC HNC/HND, undergraduate degree or equivalent) in physical measurements and instrumentation (or equivalent) with significant professional experience.
• You have good mechanical skills and a real desire to acquire more advanced knowledge, e.g., in TIG welding, brazing, industrial drawing, etc.
• Knowledge and/or experience of cryogenics and vacuum technology (helium leak detection, etc.) would be an advantage.
• Some initial experience in the production and assembly of precision mechanical assemblies.
• You have worked on prototypes or parts of scientific instruments.
• Knowledge of CAD software would be an advantage.We strongly encourage you to apply even if you do not satisfy all of the criteria. We are open to applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

What we offer

Quality of life

This position is based in Grenoble, a hub for research and technology, ideally located in the heart of the French Alps (just 3 hours from Paris/Provence by train, 1 hour from Lyon international airport and 1 ½ hours from Geneva). It is important for us that our staff achieve a healthy work-life balance. We therefore offer home working (under certain conditions), generous annual paid leave entitlement and a host of other benefits that you will discover when you arrive!

Prospects

We guarantee you a secure permanent position based in Grenoble in a multicultural scientific environment.

Benefits

We offer generous social benefits (expatriation allowance, excellent health cover), moving and relocation assistance (under certain conditions) and an annual productivity bonus. We also offer language courses for you and your partner and subsidies for the use of public transport and the staff canteen, as well as for holidays and a variety of cultural and sports activities. For more details, visit https://www.ill.eu/careers/working-at-the-ill/employment-conditions.

Sounds interesting?

Then why not take your next career step with us by applying online – preferably in English – via our career portal by 19/07/2026, quoting reference number 26/29. Please note that all applicants are subject to administrative screening (background checks). For this post, medical fitness (including for work under ionising radiation) is required. We are committed to equal opportunities and diversity and therefore welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

INDILL

Benefits:

• Canteen
• Free parking
• Language training provided
• Private medical insurance
• Relocation assistance

Work Location: On the road