Process Technologist: Acid Etch & NDT – Aerospace/Defence

Reed; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed Engineering & Manufacturing are partnering with a specialist metals manufacturer to recruit a Process Technologist. This hands‑on role combines technical process development, oversight, quality management and strategic business support.

You will own process optimization and product development, working with acid etch, pickling and NDT. You will design trials, document outcomes, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with ISO9001, Nadcap and other quality standards.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, Chemistry or related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Knowledge of acid etch and pickling within the metals industry is advantageous.
• Experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, metallurgy, quality engineering or technical operations.
• Experience with NDT methods is advantageous.
• Experience in highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to ISO9001 and/or AS9100 quality management systems.
• Experience supporting Nadcap‑accredited processes would be highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritise effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimisation of manufacturing and inspection processes, including pickling, acid etch and NDT activities.
• Design, coordinate, and evaluate process trials, documenting outcomes and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain a structured trials database to capture process development activities and support future projects.
• Work closely with production operators to understand process variables and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support the development of new products and processes aligned with commercial objectives and market demand.
• Assess market trends, research findings, and sales data to evaluate product viability and competitiveness.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop value‑added opportunities across the wider business.
• Maintain and improve management systems in line with ISO9001, AS9100, Nadcap, and other industry requirements.
• Provide day‑to‑day leadership and support to the NDT Technician while helping grow the company's inspection capabilities and accreditations.
• Build strong relationships with customers, suppliers, universities, and research centres.
• Support strategic projects aimed at expanding capability within emerging and growth markets.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Multitasking

Education

Engineering degree

Materials Science degree

Metallurgy degree

Equivalent industry experience

Tools

NDT knowledge

Job description

Reed Engineering & Manufacturing are partnering with a specialist metals manufacturer to recruit a Process Technologist. This hands‑on role combines technical process development, oversight, quality management and strategic business support.

You will own process optimization and product development, working with acid etch, pickling and NDT. You will design trials, document outcomes, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with ISO9001, Nadcap and other quality standards.