Facilities Assistant
Help support the move into UK Biobank’s new state-of-the-art research facility.
At UK Biobank, our facilities and engineering teams play a vital role in supporting one of the world’s largest biomedical resources.
As we continue our move into a brand-new headquarters at Manchester Science Park, this role, initially on a 2-year fixed-term contract, will help support the safe transfer of biological samples, specialist equipment, and critical infrastructure across our sites.
It’s a practical, hands-on role where no two days are the same, ideal for someone looking to build a long-term career within facilities, engineering, or technical services in a unique research environment.
Can you do it?
You’ll work as part of a small, experienced facilities and technical services team supporting laboratories, clinics, storage systems, and office environments across UK Biobank.
A major focus of the role will be assisting with the transfer of biological sample storage systems and equipment from our current site in Stockport to our new facility at Manchester Science Park.
Alongside supporting the move, you’ll assist with facilities maintenance, fault diagnosis, routine checks, contractor management, and the day-to-day support of critical systems, including ultra-low temperature biological sample storage environments.
This role would suit someone practical, reliable, and keen to develop technical skills within a highly specialised environment.
You will be responsible for:
- Helping with the transfer of biological storage systems from one site to another
- Assisting in the maintenance (including carrying out fault diagnosis and first-line repairs) of all plant & emergency/security systems
- Aiding in the management of and maintain all permit to work and signing-in systems ensuring contractors and visitors are following the company health and safety guidelines
- Ensure that standards and cleaning programs are continuously monitored and improved, including housekeeping and stock control
- Undertaking daily checks of key systems (e.g., sample storage system temperatures), ensuring that faults do not result in compromised sample integrity (systems monitored 24/7; routine checks carried out 7 days per week)
Is this you?
To be successful, you will have:
- A hands-on approach and willingness to support a wide range of facilities and maintenance activities.
- Confidence working in specialist environments, including ultra-low temperature storage areas. (-20 degrees)
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new technical skills and systems.
- The ability to work collaboratively within a team while also managing tasks independently when needed.
- Flexibility to travel between UK Biobank sites across the UK as part of supporting operational activities.
Working hours are 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, on-site 5 days per week, 8 am – 4 pm. Located in Greater Manchester (supporting both Stockport and Manchester Science Park locations).
Our passion for diversity and equality means creating a work environment for all employees that is welcoming, respectful, engaging, and enriched with opportunities for personal and professional development.
We actively welcome applications from people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, neurodivergent candidates, and those with diverse thinking styles. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and in the workplace so that everyone can perform at their best.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact Tommy Wilson
Jobs@ukbiobank.ac.ukso we can support you.
Your Wellbeing Matters to Us
Our wellbeing score on Indeed is rated as 77%, (High) reflecting how people experience working here day-to-day. Colleagues often highlight a strong sense of purpose, supportive team culture, and the opportunity to grow.
There’s a real focus on learning, flexibility, and feeling valued, whether that’s developing new skills, contributing ideas, or building a career within Estates & Technical Services.
Benefits
Benefits
🗓️ 26 Days’ Annual Leave – Plus Bank Holidays
➕ Holiday Buy Scheme
🎂 Birthday Leave
🏦 USS Pension Scheme
🏥 Healthcare Cash Plan
👶 Enhanced Family Leave
🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme
🚆 Season Ticket Loan
📄 Professional Subscriptions
📚 Training & Development Opportunities
🏋️ Free On-Site Gym
🍽️ Subsidised Canteen Lunches
🚗 Free Car Parking
🛍️ Employee Discounts Portal
📞 Employee Assistance Programme
💉 Annual Flu Vaccination
🛡️ Life Assurance Cover
➕ Holiday Buy Scheme
🎂 Birthday Leave
🏦 USS Pension Scheme
🏥 Healthcare Cash Plan
👶 Enhanced Family Leave
🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme
🚆 Season Ticket Loan
📄 Professional Subscriptions
📚 Training & Development Opportunities
🏋️ Free On-Site Gym
🍽️ Subsidised Canteen Lunches
🚗 Free Car Parking
🛍️ Employee Discounts Portal
📞 Employee Assistance Programme
💉 Annual Flu Vaccination
🛡️ Life Assurance Cover
#LI-Onsite
The job advert closing date may change, so early applications are encouraged.