Proof Test Operative

Martin-Baker Aircraft Co Ltd; Chalgrove; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension 9%

Life Assurance

Friday finish after 6 months

Training & development plan

Healthcare cash plan

25 days annual leave

Retail discounts (Martin-Baker+)

Cycle to work scheme

Job summary

Martin-Baker Aircraft Company Ltd is seeking a Proof Operative to join the Pyro Manufacturing team at our Chalgrove site. You will contribute to proof firing of cartridges and rocket motors, including assembly, chamber setup and data analysis of firing results.

The role is onsite at Chalgrove, with a daytime first six months and then a 4-on, 4-off shift pattern from 7am to 4.30pm. The position offers excellent employee benefits and a life-saving mission in aerospace.

Qualifications

• General background in production/manufacturing.
• Experience using a variety of hand tools.
• Basic grounding in H&S policies and procedures.
• Basic understanding of engineering drawings.
• Data analysis skills and SAP knowledge desirable.
• Values aligned with Martin-Baker.

Responsibilities

• Understand and follow the Production Cards and Process Specifications.
• Update SAP to record work in progress.
• Undertake self-inspection and quality checks.
• Monitor tools and equipment calibration and replacement.
• Handle materials safely and comply with safety regulations.
• Undertake regular operator maintenance of machine parts.

Skills

Data analysis

Hand tools

Production background

Tools

SAP

Job description

Location Chalgove Salary Competitive with excellent employee benefits Application Deadline Monday, November 30, 2026 Job Summary

As a Proof Operative you’ll join our supportive Pyro Manufacturing department at our Oxfordshire Chalgrove site. This role will be focused on proof firing of cartridges and rocket motors including assembly and setting up of chambers and the analysis of firing data.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a department that save lives.

Direct Impact, Global Scale. Life-Saving Mission.

At Martin-Baker, the work we do matters. We design, manufacture and support life-saving equipment used by aircrew around the world. Our products operate in demanding environments, where quality, reliability and attention to detail are critical.

We’re proud of our long history in aerospace and defence, also focused on the future. Joining Martin-Baker means becoming part of a business with a clear purpose, strong engineering capability and a long-term commitment to its people, products and customers.

Whether you work in engineering, operations, commercial, finance, supply chain or support functions, your contribution helps deliver equipment that protects lives. It is challenging work, but it is also meaningful, and with over 7800 lives saved, it gives our people the opportunity to be part of something with real impact.

The Opportunity

You’ll use your assembly and data analysis skills to support life‑saving equipment.

Working pattern

• First six months: a daytime role working 37 hours per week.
• After six months: a four-on, four-off shift pattern, working from 7am to 4.30pm.

This is an onsite role based at our Chalgrove, Oxford site.

What You’ll Do

• Understand and follow instructions on the Production Cards, Process Specifications.
• Update SAP in order that work in progress is accurately recorded at all times.
• Undertake self‑inspection and quality check of work undertaken.
• Monitor the fitness for purpose of tools and equipment and provide for their replacement and/or recalibration.
• Handle materials, goods and stock carefully and comply with safety regulations and handling instructions.
• Undertake regular operator maintenance of machine/tool parts.

What We’re Looking For

• General work background in production manufacturing or similar environment.
• General experience in use of a variety of hand tools
• Basic grounding in H&S policies and procedures
• Basic understanding and interpretation of engineering drawings
• Data analysis skills and SAP knowledge highly desirable.
• Share and demonstrate the Martin-Baker values.

Our Values

At Martin-Baker, we value professionalism, understanding, teamwork, humility, accountability and integrity. We look for people who take pride in their work, collaborate openly and act with care because the work we do matters.

What We Offer

• Excellent pension package with strong employer support — Martin-Baker contributes 9% of your salary (non-contributory to the employee), with further employer contributions that grow as you increase your own
• Life Assurance
• Lunchtime finish on a Friday (During the first 6 months)
• Personalised training and development plan
• Healthcare cash plan
• 25-days annual leave plus bank holidays (During the first 6 months pro rata)
• Martin-Baker + (retail discounts platform)
• Occupational Health team
• Workplace Nursery Benefit scheme
• Cycle to work scheme including e-bikes
• Subsidised canteen

We believe in equal opportunity, committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is respected. We want you to be able to do your best work.

Martin-Baker is a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, showing our support and commitment to our Armed Forces and their families, proudly supporting those who serve.

This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). For more information and guidance please visit https://martin-baker.com/security-vetting

The role also involves access to information governed by U.S. Export Control Laws (including ITAR); therefore, all applicants must satisfy ITAR eligibility requirements.

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