Gamma Camera Diagnostics Operator

If you'd like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.

JOB TITLE: Gamma Camera Diagnostics Operator

Location: AWE Aldermaston - located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking (with frequent visits to CEA Valduc - 45 minutes outside of Dijon, France)

Salary - £39,280 - £48,000 depending on your suitability, qualifications & level of experience)

Closing date: 6th February 2026

Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.

Ready to play your part?

At AWE, it's not just a job, it's far more than that. Our shared purpose is to help keep the nation safe. Could this role be the opportunity for you to play your part?

AWE is currently recruiting for Gamma Camera Diagnostics Operator. High energy flash x-ray radiography is the primary diagnostic used in AWE hydrodynamic experiments to provide dynamic materials data for the AWE Design and Theoretical Physics community. The performance of the radiographic system is dependent on the set up of the x-ray source and the radiographic detector.  Due to the classified nature of the work involved, there are limited opportunities to work from home in this role. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston.

The primary radiographic diagnostics fielded at EPURE, are Gamma cameras, used to capture real time images of a dynamic event and supplemented by image plates.  

If you were successful, you will be responsible for the setting set up, operation and capturing of data provided by these cameras and image plates.  

Who are we looking for?

We do need you to have the following:

• ONC, HNC or degree level science qualification, in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or a related field
• Software programming system / language, preferably using GEANT4 and MCNP 
• Knowledge and/or experience in data capture and radiographic techniques.
• Effective communication skills, both written and oral, and able to communicate information in a clear and concise manner 
• Organisational skills: capable of multi-tasking, identifying, and managing priorities to meet defined time scales 
• Good problem solving and analytical skills 
• Experience of working within a team towards common goals  
• Positive attitude and able to adapt to change.
   
  

Whilst not to be considered a tick list, we'd like you to have experience in some of the following:

• Providing technical contribution in support of empirical research projects and experimentation. 
• Making decisions on how to deliver their own tasks, drawing on their technical knowledge to solve problems or seek help where needed
• Following established technical processes and equipment operating instructions and communicating ideas on process improvements 
• The delivery of own technical objectives to time and quality  
• Maintaining and promoting high personal standards in environment, safety, health, security, and quality and be a great team player 

The role will involve:

• The measurement of dose using dosimetry 
• Programming software using GEANT4 and MCNP 
• Working to acquire a good knowledge and awareness in chosen technical field(s) 
• Developing awareness of team, function and company processes and technical capabilities 
• Participating in collaborative working relationships as part of a team (internal/external)  
• Ensuring technical equipment is maintained and operated appropriately 
• Presenting own technical achievements via most appropriate means  
• Undertaking assessment of own work as part of progress checking, provide progress  
• Reporting and delivering final technical output to scope 
• Ensuring the safe conduct of research activity and take appropriate action to maintain and improve standards

Candidates must be willing and able to:  

• Attain DV clearance 
• Operate in workplaces of substantial hazard (radiological, explosive, toxic)  
• Comfortable with working in the defence industry in support of the UK nuclear deterrent 
• Willing to undertake frequent visits to the Valduc site
• Undertake secondary roles for the UK Senior Technical operator in support of UK operations 
• The ability to communicate in the French Language is essential for this role Whilst training will be provided, if needed, it should be recognised that significant personal commitment and self-study will be required to reach the required level. The candidate will need to reach DELF A2 ahead of deployment to work in the high hazard area
• Fit to wear respirator and work in a radiation-controlled area 

Work hard, be rewarded:  

We ask a lot and set the bar high because our work truly matters. In return we offer balance, with award winning benefits including:  

• 9-day working fortnight – meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
• Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions)
• Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay
• Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services
• Life Assurance (4 x annual salary)
• Discounts – access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending
• Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring

The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.

You must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the security clearance required for the role (more information on this can be found on our website) and be willing and able to travel within the UK and overseas when required

Next steps:

Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don't always 'tick every box'. That's why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don't meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we'd love to receive your application.

Important things you need to know:

• We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
• You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV. 
• We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
• Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.

Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.