Pressure Vessel R&D Engineer (KTP Associate)

Job Summary

The Robert Gordon University and Glacier Energy Services are seeking to recruit a Pressure Vessel R&D Engineer (KTP Associate) to work on a 31-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).

You will be based at Glacier Energy Services Ltd (Aberdeen) and focus on development of a lightweight, low-cost high-pressure hydrogen storage vessel of hybrid metal and composite construction. Once developed, the new vessel will be optimised to achieve manufacturing scalability and ensure its design can be easily adapted to differing challenges, filling the gap between full metal and all-composite solutions.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are a UK-wide programme that helps businesses improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology, and skills that reside within the UK Knowledge Base. A Knowledge Transfer Partnership serves to meet a core strategic need and identify innovative solutions to help that business grow. This 31-month fixed-term post is jointly funded by Innovate UK and Glacier Energy Services Ltd. KTP supports partnerships between businesses and universities or research organisations, placing KTP Associates to work on innovative, high-profile projects. The KTP Associate benefits from a tax-free personal development budget of £2,000 per year (allowing them to participate in courses and professional qualifications) and will be responsible for other budgets, including travel and consumables.

This post will lead the design, build and test programme, involving experimental, structural design modelling and simulations as well as assessment of tank safety and performance. You will have technical knowledge and background in materials science, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. A minimum of MSc in a relevant subject is required; a PhD would be an added advantage. Additionally, you should have substantial work experience as a qualified Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineer with design expertise. You must have knowledge and experience in composite materials, manufacturing, and pressure vessel design to ensure products meet industry standards and safety requirements. You must have practical laboratory skills, excellent communication and strong project management and analytical skills, including the ability to use software tools to support the design and development process. A strong focus on quality and innovative thinking abilities are essential.

This post is subject to a Disclosure Scotland check. For more information visit: https://www.mygov.scot/basic-disclosure/

We would particularly welcome applications from women as they are under-represented in this area of our workforce.

Job Description

RESPONSIBLE TO: When working at Glacier Energy Services, the KTP Associate will report to and take direction from Mr Joel Croft and when working at Robert Gordon University report to and take direction from Prof James Njuguna.

RESPONSIBLE FOR: No supervisory responsibilities

PURPOSE OF POST: Lead and drive research and development efforts related to pressure vessel design and technology. This role aims to ensure the development of safe, efficient, and compliant pressure vessel solutions, contributing to the advancement of the organization's products and maintaining industry standards.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES:

To identify and research advanced materials suitable for large-scale portable hydrogen composite tanks, considering factors like weight, strength, and hydrogen compatibility. · To develop detailed design specifications and models for the composite tanks, optimizing structural integrity, capacity, and safety. ·

To carry out finite element analysis of the detailed hydrogen storage tank ·

To evaluate tank performance under various conditions, including pressure, temperature, and environmental factors, to ensure reliable gas storage. ·

To deliver the project objectives as detailed in the KTP project proposal. ·

To maintain an up-to-date project plan and provide a progress report for presentation at regular Local Management Committee (LMC) meetings. ·

To deliver presentations to immediate project team members and technical experts. Any other duties that may be reasonable, assigned by the Academic Supervisor/Company Supervisor.

 

Person Specifications

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications and Professional Requirements

MEng or MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field. 

Knowledge and skills

Knowledge of CAD software such as Solidworks, Finite Element Analysis using ANSYS and manufacturing process of hydrogen storage vessel.

Excellent communication, numeracy and IT skills.

Capable of delivering high quality work to tight deadline with the minimum of supervision.

Efficiency, accuracy and attention to detail.

Team and goal orientated.

Confident to engage with all levels of the business.

Willingness to learn from others and share best practice.

Ability to work on own initiative and prioritise workload.

Proactive, flexible with a ‘can do’ attitude.

Experience

Substantial professional experience in mechanical design.

Substantial work experience as a qualified Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineer with design expertise. While prior experience in working on R&D projects is not mandatory, it is important that the candidate has a background in mechanical engineering and design.

 

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications and Professional Memberships

PhD in a related subject

Knowledge

Understanding the standards and requirements of hydrogen storage as ASME, PD5500 and EN13455.

Understanding hybrid tank construction refers to familiarity with the construction methods and materials used in the development of composite tank.

Understanding sensors, algorithm, and software.

Familiar with structural health monitoring (SHM) techniques, which involve using sensors and monitoring systems to assess the condition and performance of structures, including composite tanks.

Experience

Experience in Using CAD Software

Experience in using ANSYS FEA

 

Benefits:

£2,000 per year to spend on personal training and development.

Attendance at two residential managerial workshops (each of one week’s duration).