KTP Associate (Cutting and Wear)

Duties & responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a simulation-based design platform for downhole milling tools.
• Conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of cutting mechanics under downhole conditions.
• Support design and validation of prototype tools using the company’s bespoke instrumented test rig.
• Collaborate closely with industrial and academic supervisors to embed modelling capabilities in C&W.
• Train company staff in the use of simulation tools and performance-informed design methodologies.
• Contribute to academic dissemination, including journal papers and conference presentations.
• Manage the day-to-day progress of the project, liaising across university and industry teams.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

The successful candidate will work with a team of engineers at Cutting& Wear Resistance Development Ltd., who are a manufacturer of drilling tools, components and consumables to the oil and gas exploration industry worldwide, as well as with research experts in manufacturing at the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering.

You will be employed by the University of Sheffield but based at Cutting & Wear Resistance Developments Ltd in Ecclesfield, therefore you need to be able to travel between the sites. The working hours include Monday to Thursday 8.00am – 4.30pm and Friday 8.00am – 2.30pm with total of 38 hours per week with half hour lunch time per day. There are 33 days paid holiday in the year including 8 statutory and the remaining 25 days annual holiday entitlement is required to be taken. You will spend some time at the University sites, on training and research as well as receiving academic and technical support throughout the project.

In addition, you will receive a £4000 per annum personal development budget which can be used for relevant professional development activities including a residential programme at Ashorne Hill to further develop your professional skills and network. You are expected to travel and stay at site to successfully finish the training. It is also anticipated that project outcomes will be disseminated to both industrial and academic audiences through conferences, industrial exhibitions and technical meetings, providing the opportunity for travel.

This 24-month fixed-term project focuses on the development of a digital design and simulation platform for optimising steel milling tools used in oil and gas well decommissioning. You will embed cutting-edge academic expertise into an industrial setting, contributing to new product development and enhanced commercial capability. This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in driving innovation in a growing, high-impact sector.