Mechanical Fitter

VanWonen; Norwich; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

MSI-Defence Systems Ltd (MSI-DS) in Norwich is seeking a skilled Mechanical Fitter to assemble sub-assemblies and complete systems to exacting standards within a modern manufacturing environment.

The role requires excellent bench fitting, ability to read technical drawings, and proficiency with manual tools and precision measurement. You will work as part of a fitting team, with potential overseas travel and a focus on safety and quality.

Qualifications

• Completed a recognised apprenticeship in mechanical fitting.
• Educated to NVQ or City & Guilds Level 3 in a relevant discipline.
• Excellent bench fitting skills with a range of hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings accurately.
• Proficient in operating manual machine tools (lathes, milling machines, grinders, drills).
• Skilled in using micrometers, verniers and slip gauges for precise measurements.
• Strong team player with ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Committed to high workmanship and safety standards; meet deadlines.
• Willing to undertake training and support others when required.

Responsibilities

• Build and manufacture products from components to complete systems.
• Follow work instructions and record time against the correct cost code in ERP.
• Undertake other duties compatible with the role as required.

Skills

Bench fitting

Read engineering drawings

Manual machine tools

Precision measurement

Team player

Safety standards

Work to deadlines

Willing to train others

Self-motivated

Education

NVQ or City & Guilds Level 3 in a relevant discipline

Tools

Lathes

Milling machines

Surface grinders

Pedestal drills

Micrometers

Vernier calipers

Slip gauges

Job description

JOB TITLE: Mechanical Fitter
SALARY: Competitive
HOURS: 37 ½ hours per wk - Mon – Thurs 0815 – 1700/ Fri 0815 – 1245 (Overtime hours possible)
LOCATION: Norwich, NR7

At the forefront of modern defence, MSI-Defence Systems Ltd (MSI-DS) specialise in advanced Remote Weapon Stations for land-based counter-drone and naval applications, helping armed forces to stay ahead of rapidly evolving threats. With almost 140 years of defence manufacturing expertise, we deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions engineered to meet the most demanding and stringent operational requirements.

As a trusted supplier to the UK Armed Forces and more than 40 militaries worldwide, our class-leading products surpass capability expectations whilst also offering unrivalled through-life in service support.

We are currently in a phase of strategic growth, investing in new technologies, expanding our global footprint, and strengthening our position as a leader in next-generation defence systems. This growth is driven by our people. We are a people-centric organisation that values collaboration, innovation, and integrity, and we actively support work–life balance, continuous learning, and long-term career progression. Joining us means becoming part of a forward-looking business where your expertise is valued, your development is supported, and your work makes a real-world impact.

About the role:

Reporting to the Fitting Supervisor, the Mechanical Fitter / Technician will be responsible

for the mechanical assembly of a range of world class products.

Excellent fitting / bench fitting skills are required to ensure the equipment is manufactured to

the highest industry standards.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Working as part of the Fitting team but also required to work and communicate with other departments during production such as Wire Persons, Test Engineers and Engineering
• Opportunity to travel overseas (on occasions) to support FSE department, which is optional
• Working in a modern manufacturing facility
• Pressurised role working to tight time schedules.

The main responsibilities will include:

• Build and manufacture products from component level through sub-assembly to the complete system.
• Follow work instructions from the Supervisor and ensure time is accurately recorded against the correct cost code in the company’s ERP system.
• Undertake any other duties reasonably compatible with the nature and scope of the role.

About the person:

To be a successful candidate for this role you must be able to demonstrate the below attributes and skillsets:

Essential:

• Completed a recognised apprenticeship as a Mechanical Fitter, Machine Builder, Assembly Technician, or similar.
• Educated to a minimum of NVQ or City & Guilds Level 3 in a relevant discipline.
• Excellent bench fitting skills using a range of hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret technical engineering drawings for components and assemblies.
• Proficient in operating manual machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, surface grinders, and pedestal drills, maintaining tight tolerances.
• Skilled in using precision measurement equipment, such as micrometers, verniers, and slip gauges.
• Strong team player with the ability to work independently and use your own initiative when required.
• Committed to producing workmanship to the highest industry standards.
• Works safely and in an orderly manner, adhering fully to all company Health & Safety standards.
• Able to work efficiently to meet deadlines without compromising safety or quality.
• Willing to undertake training and support the development of others when required.l
• Self-motivated and capable of working unsupervised when necessary.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge of working within the Defence industry.

Key Working Relationships:

Internal:

• Head of Operations
• Fitting Supervisor
• Fitting Team Leader
• Wire & Test Engineers
• Stores Personnel
• R&D Dept
• Security & Admin Staff

External:

Customers (if assigned to outwork)