Skilled Fitter - Military (AEW&C Assembly Line)

Our aerospace client based in Southampton is currently seeking two Skilled Fitters to join their military division on the late shift, supporting the AEW&C assembly line.

Job Title: Skilled Operator

Working Hours:
Late Shift: 14:15 - 22:30 (Monday to Thursday), 12:00 - 18:00 (Friday)

Pay Rates:
Earlies: £35.66 per hour
Lates: £38.21 per hour

Reporting to: Section Flow Leader / Shop Floor Manager
Department: Military

Role Summary
As a Skilled Operator within the military department, you will be an integral part of an established team responsible for the strip, repair, and assembly of aircraft structures, components, and sub-assemblies. This role requires a high level of technical ability and collaboration with functional specialists to meet production targets, while maintaining strict adherence to safety requirements and customer specifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain Approved Operator (AO) status, including holding the relevant stamps to approve your own work in line with required standards.
• Interpret and work from engineering data, technical drawings, specifications, repair schemes, and manufacturing procedures.
• Work independently with minimal supervision, ensuring tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Complete work route cards to maintain full component traceability.

Military-focused tasks include:

• Measuring, marking, and carrying out close-tolerance hand fitting.
• Precision drilling, reaming, countersinking, and finishing of aircraft structures.
• Applying assembly techniques such as riveting, use of mechanical fasteners, and bonding.
• Carrying out sealing and jointing processes to protect aircraft structures.
• Assembling pipework across a range of aircraft types.
• Performing alignment, rigging, pressure testing, and functional testing of aircraft systems.

Qualifications:

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Engineering or Manufacturing, or a completed apprenticeship in a related trade.

Skills and Experience:

• Strong numerical, literacy, and IT skills, with the ability to interpret technical information.
• Effective planning and problem-solving capabilities.
• Understanding of lean manufacturing and 5S principles.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• A proactive approach with a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently when required.

Physical Requirements:

• This role involves manual handling; candidates must be able to carry out physical tasks (with assistance where required).
• Flexibility to work shifts is essential.

Desirable Experience:

• Previous experience working with complex metallic and composite aircraft structures.

Security Clearance:
This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. Inability to obtain BPSS clearance may affect eligibility, and any offer of employment could be withdrawn on national security grounds.