Wind Tunnel Technician
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 looking to recruit a Wind Tunnel Technician whose primary function will be to operate aerodynamic test facilities in a safe, efficient manner, consistent with the needs of customer test requirements. Operation may include equipment calibration, the set-up of specialized measurement/monitoring equipment, model assembly for test, troubleshooting, making and implementing agreed recommendations for improvement and test execution. The main test facility will be ARA’s 9’x8’ transonic wind tunnel but there are complementary facilities which the position will also cover.
Typical hours: Full-time, 40-hour per week (shift work may be required on a rotating weekly basis)
Salary range: £30,000 to £38,000 (depending on experience)
Grade: 6
This is a varied and demanding role and it involves a number of duties and responsibilities:
- General departmental duties e.g. record maintenance, model storage, organization of equipment, rig maintenance, etc;
- Working within a team environment in the preparation and assembly of models and rigs for testing to defined quality standards, giving consideration to schedule and costs;
- Maintenance, calibration and quality control of specialist rigs, facilities and associated equipment;
- Preparation and installation of specialist optical measurement systems in test facilities;
- Operating the main Transonic Wind Tunnel;
- Operating complementary test facilities;
- Making recommendations for design, process or hardware modifications to support continuous improvement;
- Operation and development of aerodynamic test facilities, rigs and equipment, including the operation of control systems directly associated with the facilities and specialist rigs;
- Undertaking training, where necessary, in support of the above duties, to ensure that safe working practices are observed (e.g. forklift, facility operation, manual handling, confined spaces, etc).
What we are looking for in you:
- Experienced time served technician, preferably HNC/HND Mechanical Engineering or equivalent with hands on experience of specialist equipment or facilities;
- Solid background in mechanical engineering and an appreciation of other engineering disciplines such as instrumentation, control systems, high pressure hydraulics or pneumatics;
- Exposure in working within an R&D and/or commercial environment;
- Experience of working on small precision assemblies;
- Team player, capable of coaching and mentoring less experienced employees as well as supervision of ‘young hires’ as required;
- Flexible and positive attitude, with drive, commitment and willingness to go that extra mile to meet deadlines/schedules;
- Attention to detail in terms of quality of work whilst maintaining a clean, safe working environment;
Our benefits:
This is an exciting permanent opportunity for the right person to be part of a successful and highly skilled engineering company. In return, we offer a range of benefits including: a competitive salary and pension scheme; free parking; share incentive plan; 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.
