Experiment Support and Instrument Technician-ThRILL

Core mission:

The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research facility for fundamental research using neutrons. The ILL operates the brightest neutron source in the world and hosts over 2000 visits by scientists per year, who come to carry out world-class research.

Within the Applied Science group (AS, 18 people) of ILL's Science Division, you will act as instrument technician for the new ThRILL thermal neutron imaging instrument, which will enter user operation in 2027, and TENIS, an irradiation instrument serving academic and industrial needs.

Your tasks:

In this context, you will:

• Ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of ThRILL and TENIS, which are located in building ILL5, level C, at the reactor neutron source.
• Coordinate the work of ILL services involved in these activities.
• Assist the ILL scientists responsible for ThRILL and TENIS with the preparation and conducting of experiments, typically together with scientific and industrial users.
• Propose technical improvements and, where appropriate, implement these improvements with the assistance of ILL services.
• Help to ensure compliance with ILL and instrument safety regulations, in particular radiation protection regulations.
• Become a valued member of the Applied Science group and support your colleagues and users where needed and appropriate.

Your profile:

• You have a Level 4-6 qualification (e.g. BTEC HNC/HND, undergraduate degree or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, applied physics and instrumentation or equivalent.
• You have at least two years of professional experience in the same area.
• You have experience in the manufacture, assembly and alignment of precision mechanical, electronic and optical assemblies.
• You are proficient in the use of CAD software.
• Ideally, you also have some knowledge of computing, electronics and electricity to allow you to take part in other technical projects.
• You have a practical approach to your work and are keen to learn new skills.
• You are an excellent team player but are also capable of working independently on a wide variety of projects.
• You are able to work meticulously and provide support to in-house and visiting scientists.

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!

Sounds interesting?

Then why not take your next career step with us by applying online - preferably in English - via our career portal by 22.11.2026, quoting reference number 26/50.

Please note that all applicants are subject to administrative screening (background checks). For this post, medical fitness for work under ionising radiation is required.

We are committed to equal opportunities and diversity and therefore welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) is based in Grenoble (France) and operates Europe's leading

research facility for basic research with neutrons. United by our passion for progress and

technology, we drive science and research forward every day. Together, we can pave the way

for discoveries that will help to make our world a better place.