Mechanical Fitter / Machinist
Permanent
Salary competitive
Working hours: Monday to Thursday 7:45 am to 04:30 pm and 7:45 am to 1:00 on Fridays
Role Purpose
The Mechanical Fitter / CNC Machinist provides dual‑discipline capability across mechanical assembly/fitting, CNC machining, and manual machining, supporting both production and prototype/R&D activities. The role ensures high‑integrity components and assemblies are manufactured, assembled, tested, and delivered to aerospace/defence standards.
Core Responsibilities
- Mechanical fitting & assembly — Build, align, assemble, and test mechanical systems, sub‑assemblies, and prototypes to engineering drawings and specifications.
- CNC machining operations — Program (basic), set, and operate CNC mills/turns to produce tight‑tolerance components for aerospace/defence applications.
- Manual machining — Manufacture one‑off parts, tooling, fixtures, and rework items using manual lathes, mills, grinders, and hand tools.
- Engineering problem‑solving — Diagnose assembly issues, machining inaccuracies, tolerance conflicts, and prototype build challenges; propose and implement practical engineering solutions.
- Quality assurance & inspection — Conduct first‑off inspections, dimensional checks, and verification against aerospace/defence standards (AS9100 aligned).
- R&D and prototype support — Work with design and engineering teams to develop prototypes, experimental assemblies, fixtures, and tooling.
Required Skills & Technical Competencies
- Mechanical fitting experience in precision engineering, aerospace, defence, or similar high‑integrity sectors.
- CNC machining competence — Setting & operating
- Strong manual machining capability for bespoke and prototype work.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, tolerance stacks, and aerospace specifications.
- Experience working to tight tolerances (±0.01 mm typical).
- Proficiency with inspection tools: micrometers, verniers, height gauges, bore gauges; CMM familiarity beneficial.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- A versatile engineer comfortable switching between hands‑on fitting, CNC machining, and manual machining depending on workload.
- Analytical mindset with a natural ability to troubleshoot and resolve engineering challenges.
- Enjoys prototype work, iterative development, and supporting R&D innovation.
- Works effectively in a small, fast‑paced subcontract environment with varied daily tasks.
- Takes pride in producing high‑accuracy, safety‑critical components for aerospace and defence.
- Strong communicator who collaborates well with engineers, machinists, and quality teams.
Qualifications & Experience
- Time‑served apprenticeship or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or Precision Engineering.
- 3–5+ years’ experience in machining, fitting, or hybrid roles.
- Aerospace/defence sector experience highly desirable.
- Additional training in CNC programming, metrology, or advanced machining advantageous.
Compliance & Safety Requirements
- Adherence to AS9100, ISO9001, and internal quality procedures.
- Commitment to safe working practices, PPE use, and risk‑based decision‑making.
- Ability to complete required documentation for traceability and compliance.
Outputs & Deliverables
- High‑integrity machined components meeting drawing and tolerance requirements.
- Fully assembled and tested mechanical systems/prototypes.
- Accurate inspection records, build documentation, and non‑conformance reports.
- Continuous improvement suggestions for machining, assembly, and workflow.