Knitting Technician - Nights

Oxford Space Systems; Harwell; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Oxford Space Systems is seeking an experienced Knitting Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team on a night shift for a 6-month fixed-term contract at our Harwell site. The role focuses on operating, setting up, and maintaining industrial knitting equipment used in our precision metal mesh products for aerospace applications.

You will perform routine machine adjustments, conduct preventative maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and record production and maintenance activities in line with

Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial knitting equipment in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Operate knitting machines for precision metal mesh production.
• Set up machines and monitor performance during night shifts.
• Carry out routine adjustments and preventive maintenance.
• Troubleshoot faults and resolve machine issues as they arise.
• Maintain accurate production and maintenance records.
• Follow quality, health and safety procedures at all times.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Independent worker

Tools

Industrial knitting machines

Job description

Oxford Space Systems develops innovative deployable antennas for Space. Our aim is to be the global leader in this field, providing effective solutions today for the space-based services of the future. We are leveraging innovations from beyond the space sector to make our antennas smaller, lighter and cheaper than traditional designs.

This is an exciting time to part of our journey us as we scale up for the future, having already delivered multiple systems for operational satellites with in-orbit deployment success, and significant investment in our facilities with a state-of-the-art head office at Harwell and a bespoke manufacturing facility in Abingdon.

The Role

As our manufacturing capability grows, we're continuing to develop innovative technical textile solutions and expand our capabilities. To support this we are looking for an experienced Knitting Machine Operator to join our team, working a night shift initially on a 6 month fixed term contract.

This role plays a key part in the manufacture of our precision-engineered fine metal mesh products. Working closely with the Technical Textiles team, you will be responsible for operating, maintaining and troubleshooting industrial knitting machines to ensure consistent product quality, efficient production and minimal downtime during the evening shift.

As part of the role, you will set up and monitor knitting machines, perform routine machine adjustments, carry out preventative maintenance activities and resolve mechanical or operational issues as they arise. You will also maintain accurate production and maintenance records, ensuring all work is completed in accordance with company quality standards, manufacturing instructions and health and safety procedures.

You are likely to have previous experience operating industrial knitting equipment within a manufacturing environment and will be confident carrying out machine setup, maintenance and fault-finding activities. You will possess strong mechanical aptitude, excellent attention to detail and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Experience of operating textile, knitting, weaving or similar manufacturing equipment using metal wire would be advantageous, as would experience within a precision manufacturing or highly regulated environment.

If you have the relevant skills and experience, enjoy solving technical challenges and want to make a significant contribution to a growing and innovative aerospace business, we would like to hear from you. In return, we offer the opportunity to work with a highly skilled team, contribute to the manufacture of advanced aerospace products and gain experience within a dynamic and fast-growing organisation.