Structures Technician

AALTO HAPS; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Farnborough is seeking a Structures Technician to manufacture and assemble Zephyr Aircraft structures. The ideal candidate should have strong skills in reading engineering drawings and composite part handling, as well as experience in ESD sensitive environments. You will support safety initiatives, train team members, and ensure quality checks. Join a company that values your growth and offers a rewarding work environment with a competitive pension plan and bonus scheme.

Benefits

Competitive bonus scheme

Pension plan

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of reading engineering drawings and following process instructions.
• Good hand skills and ability to trim, form, and shape composite parts.
• Knowledge of adhesive bonding techniques and processes for composite parts.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and assemble aircraft structure (both sub-assembly and primary assembly).
• Use measuring equipment for dimensional verification.
• Identify waste in assembly processes and implement improvement activities.

Skills

Reading engineering drawings

Good hand skills for composite parts

Adhesive bonding techniques knowledge

Dimensional verification

Working in ESD sensitive environments

Ability to work under pressure

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Proficient computer skills

Education

Aerospace or Engineering Full Apprenticeship

NVQ Level 03 Qualification in Avionics Engineering

Job description

Structures Technician

Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar-powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr.

Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time, with a current flight‑time record of over 67 days in the stratosphere from above 60,000 ft (20 km) above ground. AALTO can deliver direct‑to‑device connectivity, high‑resolution Earth observation, and other applications to commercial and government partners.

AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most air traffic and low‑Earth orbit. This is where high‑altitude platforms led by Zephyr provide services to monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters, and connect unconnected communities.

Job Purpose

Working as part of a team to manufacture, assemble, and test the Zephyr Aircraft structure, while providing support to other areas of the Manufacturing Facility to ensure on‑time and on‑budget delivery of aircrafts to meet HAPS Global business requirements.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and assemble aircraft structure (both sub‑assembly and primary assembly).
• Use measuring equipment and calibrated jigs to carry out dimensional verification to the specification.
• Identify waste in assembly processes and implement activities to improve efficiency.
• Support shop safety initiatives and manage timely implementation of countermeasures to resolve problems.
• Perform post adhesive bonding quality checks to meet quality assurance standards.
• Mitigate immediate risks including ‘stop work’ as well as escalating emerging risks, issues, and shortfalls in a timely manner.
• Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to new and existing team members to support workforce development and knowledge sharing.
• Carry out daily housekeeping tasks to ensure health, safety, and operational requirements.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of reading engineering drawings and following process instructions.
• Good hand skills and ability to trim, form, and shape composite parts.
• Knowledge of adhesive bonding techniques and processes for composite parts.
• Dimensional verification to the specification.
• Understanding and practical knowledge of working in ESD sensitive environments.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet strict production targets.
• Clear and effective communication skills (both written and oral).
• EWIS (Electrical Wiring and Interconnection Systems) Training.
• Knowledge of general aircraft manufacturing/maintenance processes applicable to the aviation environment (Human Factors, FOD, Tool Control, Health & Safety & COSHH).
• Understanding of 6S.
• Attention to detail.
• Proficient computer skills, and use of the Microsoft Office suite.

Qualifications

• Aerospace or Engineering Full Apprenticeship.
• Completed an NVQ Level 03 Qualification in Avionics Engineering or another relevant discipline.

Preferred Skills

• Completed an NVQ Level 03 Qualification in Aerospace Engineering / Avionics Engineering or another relevant discipline.
• Previous experience in Aerospace, Space, or other highly regulated sectors.
• Understanding of manufacturing Pulse Lines.
• Understanding of Lean / 6 Sigma.
• IOSHH.

#LI-LC1

Department: Production Build

Locations: Farnborough

About AALTO

At AALTO, we take pride in building and offering an exceptional work environment that values your well‑being and rewards your dedication. We believe in recognising your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability.

AALTO is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.

Founded in 2022 • Co‑workers 190+