BACS Shift Leader

The Pirbright Institute

The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks. We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.

Organisation position and purpose

The BACS (Building Automation and Control System) Shift Leader works as part of a 24/7 continental shift pattern providing site monitoring and system management of a highly automated high containment site. Including HVAC and process plant, high containment drainage and effluent treatment plants and equipment, standard building services including gases, water, compressed air, steam, condense and refrigeration systems. Provide the first line response and fix to reactive break downs and complete planned activities as required including Installation, commissioning and maintenance of various BACS systems form an integral part of the role.

This role will be reporting to the BACS Supervisor and will have the responsibility of leading and managing the BACS Shift Team, supported by a dedicated management team.

As a BMS Controls Shift Leader, you must be able to manage your team to ensure that the plant is running efficiently whilst also meeting quality and safety standards. The Shift Leader will also need the ability to support design, implement and maintain processes that help the Pirbright Institute deliver their core business of research.

You must be adaptable, striving to find creative solutions to problems as they arise and assist in the implementation of predictive maintenance plans. You must be able to analyse plant processes and help make improvements based on your extensive knowledge of controls, engineering and mechanical systems.

An excellent communicator, as the work often requires working with many departments and external entities to accomplish goals.

Main duties and responsibility

The BACS Shift Leader is responsible for leading the safe and effective operation of the Building Automation Control Systems (BACS) across the site. The role ensures continuous monitoring, control, and maintenance of containment systems, supports compliance with statutory and licence conditions, and drives a culture of quality, performance, and operational excellence within the shift team.

The postholder maintains a continually staffed control room, provides real-time operational decision-making, and promotes high technical standards, system reliability, and strong communication across engineering and operational stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Control & Shift Leadership

• Ensure the control room is continuously staffed and maintain accountability for all shift operations.
• Lead the shift team in the operation, monitoring, and control of BACS, ensuring adherence to procedures and safe systems of work.
• Make informed, independent decisions during live operational events to maintain containment boundaries and site integrity.
• Maintain high professional standards and a positive client perception at all times.
• Ensure accurate and effective shift handovers, including documentation of plant status, ongoing works, permitted tasks, shutdown activities, and outstanding issues.

2. Compliance, Safety & Quality Assurance

• Ensure full compliance with Pirbright Institute Health, Safety, Risk, QA and Security Policies.
• Support maintenance of the SAPO licence through accurate audit trails, robust operational records, and root-cause analysis of plant failures.
• Perform daily audits and checks in line with BACS SOP 106 and associated Work Instructions, ensuring accurate data capture and reporting of KPIs.
• Contribute to continual improvement through the Quality Management System, updating procedures, work methods, and communication processes.

3. Fault Response, Engineering Support & System Wellbeing

• Lead fault-finding, investigation, and technical analysis to resolve engineering problems and support system reliability.
• Collect and analyse operational data, identify trends, and recommend improvements to plant performance, control strategies, and resilience.
• Prepare and support engineering changes including specifications, change notices, equipment evaluations, and integration assessments.
• Maintain and develop critical spares levels to support rapid response and mitigation of downtime.
• Work with EMS teams to ensure effective completion of PPM and reactive maintenance tasks, including controlled tests and plant performance trials.

4. Project & Shutdown Support

• Support project activities including upgrades, refurbishments, and installation of new building control systems and equipment.
• Assist in shutdown planning and execution, including coordination of Safe Systems of Work, contractor management, and operational risk assessments.
• Temporarily support project delivery outside of the shift pattern when required.

5. People Leadership, Competency & Training

• Ensure all team members complete mandatory induction, departmental training, and competency requirements across C and B graded levels, with accurate documentation.
• Maintain oversight of ongoing competency, training needs, and development planning to ensure the shift team remains capable, resilient, and continuously improving.
• Provide guidance and system familiarisation for new starters and set probation targets to support their successful integration and competence.
• Set and manage SMART objectives for the BACS team (PPDR), ensuring timely submission, review, and return to HR.

6. Stakeholder Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain close liaison with the BACS Supervisor and EMS team to ensure coordinated operations, maintenance activities, contractor control, and risk management.
• Support energy efficiency initiatives in partnership with the Energy Manager, providing accurate data and recommendations for improvement.
• Promote clear communication processes across teams and departments to support Engineering and organisational reputation.

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager. The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.

Specific requirements

Essential

• Strong technical understanding of Industrial Automated Control Systems (IACS) / Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS), including experience operating integrated control solutions within complex engineering environments.
• Proven experience in leading, managing, and developing technical teams, demonstrating the ability to motivate, influence and build capability across shift operations.
• Competent in interpreting technical data, engineering drawings and control system information, with the ability to produce clear, accurate reports.
• Strong IT literacy, including proficiency with common office applications and relevant engineering or control system software.

Desirable

• Experience planning, coordinating or overseeing maintenance activities within regulated or safety-critical environments.
• Understanding of HR processes related to team leadership (e.g performance, development, or training management).

What we offer

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days
• Buy and sell annual leave
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
• Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
• Pirbright social club
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
• Cycle to work
• Subsidised staff restaurant
• Childcare allowance
• Free onsite parking
• Electric Car charging facilities