Skilled Fitter - A350

Matchtech; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Eastleigh is looking for a Skilled Fitter to join their A350 Assembly team. The ideal candidate will have NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Engineering/Manufacturing and experience assembling metallic and composite structures. Responsibilities include using precision tools, interpreting engineering drawings, and maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Competitive pay for early shifts is offered.

Qualifications

• Ability to work to defined standard times in a fast-paced assembly environment.
• Strong planning, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Working knowledge of 5S and lean manufacturing practices.

Responsibilities

• Assemble components and sub-assemblies involving metallic and composite materials.
• Perform fitting tasks using precision hand tools.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Skills

Use of hand tools

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Interpreting engineering drawings

Attention to detail

Education

NVQ Level 3 or equivalent

Tools

Nut runners

Torque wrenches

DTI measuring equipment

Job description

Our Aerospace client based in Hamble, Southampton, are seeking a Skilled Fitter to join their A350 Assembly team on the early shift.

Pay:
Umbrella - Earlies: £30.56

Hours:
06:00-14:15 (Mon-Thu) / 06:00-12:00 (Fri)

Role Summary

You will work as part of an established departmental team in a skilled position responsible for the stripping, repair, and assembly of aircraft components and sub-assemblies. As a Skilled Operator, you are expected to demonstrate a high level of self-management, ownership, and discipline in day-to-day tasks. Skilled status also involves responsibility for problem-solving, teamwork, and contributing to the overall success of the business.

Role-Specific Responsibilities

• Reporting directly to the Section Flow Leader and collaborating with team members and functional specialists (Engineering, Quality, etc.) to meet production targets safely, efficiently, and to customer specifications.
• Performing assembly of components and sub-assemblies involving both metallic and composite materials, ensuring correct methods and precision.
• Carrying out fitting tasks using hand tools, including close-tolerance hand fitting.
• Using nut runners and torque wrenches to tighten fasteners to specified torque values without causing damage.
• Operating DTI (Dial Test Indicator) equipment to measure alignment and tolerances accurately.
• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and work instructions.
• Measuring, marking out, drilling, countersinking, reaming, and finishing precision holes in aircraft structural assemblies.
• Applying assembly techniques including riveting, mechanical fastening, bonding, and sealing.
• Using jointing and protective finishing techniques such as Alocrom.
• Installing bushes and bearings, and marking components for identification.
• Assembling pipework, performing alignment checks, pressure testing, electrical bonding, and other functional tests as required.

Requirements

• NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Engineering/Manufacturing, or completion of a time-served apprenticeship in a relevant trade.
• Skilled in using hand tools, nut runners, torque wrenches, and DTI measuring equipment.
• Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Good numeracy, literacy, and IT skills, with the ability to use PC-based systems to read work instructions.
• Ability to work to defined standard times in a fast-paced assembly environment, maintaining both speed and quality.
• Strong planning, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Working knowledge of 5S and lean manufacturing practices.
• Positive work ethic, motivation to succeed, and reliability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively within a team and with minimal supervision.

Desirable Qualifications / Experience

• Prior experience manufacturing complex metallic and composite structures.

Security Clearance

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which must be maintained throughout employment. Failure to obtain or retain BPSS clearance may result in ineligibility for the role and withdrawal of any employment offer on national security grounds