Metal Model Maker Fitter
Aircraft Research Association (ARA) is a unique SME and the UK’s leading independent transonic wind tunnel with a passionate workforce of engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Typical projects include producing scaled-down military and civilian aircraft models, comprising multiple parts, which are assembled together and used as highly accurate forces/pressures measuring devices within the on-site high-speed (transonic) wind tunnel.
We are seeking to recruit a motivated Fitter into our Design and Manufacture Department to work as part of a professional team, fitting and assembling wind tunnel components. Reporting to the Fitting Section Team Leader, the successful candidate will be a team player, confident individual with a positive attitude. They are required to have skills and qualifications that include a mix of technical training, craftmanship and attention to detail. This role will be ideal for someone with manual dexterity and experienced in working environments requiring extreme precision and care.
Salary range: £33,000 to £40,000 per annum (depending upon experience)
Grade 6
Typical hours – Full-time, 38-hours per week
This is a varied and demanding role involving a number of duties and responsibilities:
- Carry out all aspects of fitting activity (hand working surfaces to remove machine marks, blending component joint lines to remove steps/gaps, fitting precision components and assembling models and installing pressure tubing) as directed by the Fitting Section Team Leader.
- Monitor the serviceability of Fitting Section machines, equipment and tooling, and report potential problems to the Fitting Section Team Leader.
- If required and when deemed qualified to do so, support on the job training and provide guidance to less experienced staff working in the Fitting Section.
- Ensure that the minimum direct (project) booking requirement is achieved (detailed at the top of this job description for reference), using correct project and sub-assembly booking codes for work completed.
- When on shifts, ensure a safe and timely handover of the work in progress to the incoming shift and TL, ensuring that adequate notes and technical advice are available.
- Make recommendations for process improvement in Fitting techniques, where appropriate, to the Fitting Section Team Leader.
Essential skills
- Must have an NVQ and/or BTEC in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Metalworking, Fabrication
- A served apprentice in model making, tool making or fitting
- Demonstrable experience in manual and powered tools (lathes, grinder, drills)
- Ability to read an interpret technical drawings or CAD design
- Solid understanding of other MMC skills such as EDM wiring and plunge, turning, jig boring, grinding and CNC machining.
- Knowledge of metal properties and safe handling of precious materials
- High attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team
This is an exciting permanent opportunity for the right person to be part of a successful and established precision manufacturing team, operating in an excellent facility. In return, we offer a range of benefits including: a competitive salary and pension scheme, free parking, employee assistance programme, private health insurance and 26 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing with length of service after 5 years’ service).
The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.
Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.
If you think you are the person we are looking for, please complete the form below.
