This is a highly hands‑on R&D technician role supporting the development of next‑generation composite products and manufacturing technologies for aerospace applications. You’ll work closely with engineers in a collaborative R&D environment, manufacturing and testing advanced composite structures using cutting‑edge processes such as robotic winding, tri‑axial braiding and High‑Pressure Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM).
Responsibilities
* Manufacture and assemble advanced composite components using filament winding, braiding, RTM, mechanical fastening and structural adhesives
* Plan, set up, execute and report on engineering test programmes to support R&D activities
* Design, build and adapt bespoke test enclosures, fixtures and rigs to enable safe, repeatable testing
* Conduct mechanical, impact, pressure, leak and environmental testing on composite components
* Apply and validate strain gauges and carry out material characterisation (e.g. fibre volume fraction, void content, Tg)
* Collaborate with engineers to develop and maintain test procedures, work instructions and best practices
* Operate, troubleshoot and maintain manufacturing and test equipment, ensuring compliance with safety, COSHH and 5S standards
* Proactively identify hazards and support a strong health, safety and housekeeping culture
Qualifications
* Strong hands‑on technical ability within a laboratory, test or manufacturing environment
* Experience operating industrial or engineering equipment, such as manufacturing systems or mechanical test rigs
* A logical, methodical approach to problem‑solving with strong attention to detail
Desirable Skills
* Experience working with composite materials and processes (e.g. RTM, filament winding, braiding)
* Exposure to mechanical, pressure or environmental testing and test data reporting
* Competence using Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation and data analysis
* A proactive mindset, comfortable working in a fast‑paced R&D environment with a strong willingness to learn
Benefits
* Competitive salary
* Company performance bonus scheme
* Pension scheme – up to 10% employer contribution
* Private medical insurance
* Comprehensive health cash plan
* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
* Flexible benefits programme (buy & sell holiday allowance, discounted gym memberships, maternity/adoption leave – up to 52 weeks, first 26 weeks at full pay, subsequent 26 at 50% of basic pay; paternity/parental leave 4 weeks full pay)
* Structured training & opportunities to progress
#J-18808-Ljbffr