Design Technician

Position: Design TechnicianLocation: Northampton, UKThe Company:Launched in 2007, Blackstar is globally recognised and respected as an innovator and leader in guitar amplification design. We are a company of musicians who are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone.Blackstar is based in Northampton, with over 100 years’ combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. Our team pioneers change in the industry and has a strong commitment to driving transformational innovation within all of our products. Blackstar products are the best in the world for design, technology and performance – we create the ultimate tools for self-expression.Blackstar Amplification’s R&D team are we are seeking a talented and motivated Design Technician.Overall purpose of the job: The support of electronics design and project activities with R&DThe duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:·        Assisting in day-to-day R&D new product development activities·        General duties within the department, such as keeping laboratories and sound-room tidy and well stocked·        Controlling the labs, soundrooms and Golden Sample reference areas. Logging each sample and ensuring rotation is controlled.Technical·        Setting up and performing sound tests and competitor evaluations·        Assisting in the building and testing of prototypes·        Sourcing components for prototype production and testing·        Writing and performing new product test procedures and recording/presenting resultsDocumentation·        The maintenance and filing of approvals documentation·        Update the RFC, Concession, Sample and Drawing Number Registers weekly following the relevant QMS processProject Management·        Coordinating activities between the UK and China design resources on given projects·        Updating the Programme Manager daily and provide written reportsRequired Knowledge and Experience:Degree in electronics or associated engineering subjectA demonstrable aptitude for electronics. Will have been interested in guitar amps, consumer electronics and circuitry, or mechanical construction/design as a hobby or in a previous roleExcellent verbal and written communication skillsExcellent numerical and analytical skillsBass/guitar playerHigh level of attention to detailHighly organisedIndependent and self-reliantA flexible approach to workStrong team and work ethicsPersonable and outgoing natureExcellent interpersonal skillsEnthusiastic, conscientious, committed and dependableA ‘can-do’ attitudeVery methodical and diligent record keeperTeam playerAbility to manage time effectively and prioritise appropriately Desirable1-2 years’ experience of electronic and/or mechanical design in a consumer audio or electronics environmentSome experience of design in a fast-moving engineering environmentSome experience of high voltage valve equipmentSome experience in fault testing and diagnosisKnowledge of CAD PCB designUsed to working to tight deadlinesPassion for the music industryA structured engineering approachExperience of using Blackstar products or equivalent music related productsThe Environment:·        Blackstar is a unique environment; we are all musicians/music lovers and the dress code is relaxed.·        Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole.·        Most of our staff have worked in the industry for a long time and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.·        Office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve project deliverables to schedule. Flexible approach to working hours/environment where possible, according to needs.·        If you share our passion, approach your work with pride, are driven by innovation, want to be the best and help to grow our global brand to its highest potential we would love to hear from you. Please apply with an up-to-date CV and a covering letter telling us why you are the right person for the role.