AIT Mechanical Technician

Overview

Expleo is a leading Global Engineering Services Provider with UK presence in 10 locations.  As part of our continued support to our customer in the space sector we are looking for AIT Mechanical Technicians.  The role will be based at our customer’s facility in Stevenage and the candidate should be prepared to work shift (for which a premium will be paid).

Mechanical Technicians are responsible for the mechanical assembly, integration, inspection and testing of complex pace systems, including satellites, payloads, structures and associated equipment. Working within a controlled cleanroom environment, the technician supports the manufacture of flight hardware by interpreting engineering documentation, following approved procedures and ensuring all work is completed to the highest quality and safety standards.

The role requires a hands-on individual with strong mechanical skills, attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary engineering team supporting advanced aerospace and space programmes.

This role represents a great opportunity to work on cutting edge satellite programmes.  Valued attributes are a team player who can use their initiative and has a real passion for engineering with an attention to detail, combined with a thorough, methodical approach to problem solving.

Responsibilities

The AIT Mechanical Technician will perform, but not be limited to the following type of activities centred on the assembly of satellite and satellite payloads in a cleanroom:

• Assemble, integrate and install mechanical components, structures and subsystems in accordance with engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Interpret 3D models, technical drawings and engineering documentation.
• Install and route:
  • Electrical harnesses
  • Coaxial cables
  • Thermal hardware
  • Waveguides and associated mechanical systems
• Perform component inspection, handling, grounding and bonding activities.
• Support the manufacture and assembly of spacecraft structures, panels and payload equipment.
• Carry out mechanical integration of:
  • Electronic units
  • Instruments
  • Mechanisms
  • Antennas
  • Solar arrays
  • Payloads
  • Spacecraft subsystems
• Support environmental testing activities including vibration, acoustic, thermal and mass properties testing.
• Complete production documentation and maintain full manufacturing traceability.
• Raise and support resolution of non-conformances, deviations and quality observations.
• Work in accordance with cleanroom, FOD, ESD, COSHH and health & safety requirements.
• Support continuous improvement, standardisation and Lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Contribute to the development of work instructions, procedures and process improvements.

Qualifications

• Apprenticeship in Engineering, Aerospace or a related discipline.
• ONC or NVQ Level 3 in an Engineering related discipline.
• No/a lower qualification would be acceptable should the candidate be able to demonstrate significant demonstrable relevant experience in lieu.

Essential skills

• Lean manufacturing techniques including 5S, root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
• High self-motivation and ability to deal with changing priorities on a multi project basis.
• Good problem-solving skills (technical, logistics and organisational)
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work in a team.
• Satellite Appendage installation process (Solar Array, reflectors, antennas, deployable systems)

Experience

• Experience in mechanical fitting, assembly or integration within aerospace, space, defence or high-technology manufacturing environments.
• Good understanding of complex mechanical assemblies and engineering drawings.
• Experience working in controlled environments such as cleanrooms.
• Familiarity with FOD, ESD and quality management requirements.
• Understanding of Lean manufacturing principles, 5S and root cause analysis.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication and documentation skills.
• Experience of satellite, payload or aerospace assembly is advantageous.
• High mechanical skills and relevant experience.
• Good planning skills and process competence, (MRP system experience an advantage)
• Previous experience of payload builds is a distinct advantage.

What do I need before I apply

• BPSS Cleared.
• Ability and willingness to travel to and work on the clients Stevenage site 5 days per week.
• Ability and willingness to support the following client repeating shift pattern:
  • Mon-Fri (06:00-14:00) @ x1.2 pay uplift
  • Mon-Fri (14:00-22:00) @ x1.2 pay uplift
• This role includes work within the Bio Clean Facility (BCF). This environment requires extended periods in full PPE, including masks, and involves a lengthy gowning and de‑gowning process. Movement in and out of the area is restricted to protect bio‑clean integrity, meaning unscheduled breaks or rapid exit may not always be possible. Applicants should ensure they are comfortable working in these conditions. Expleo will consider reasonable adjustments where they can be accommodated without compromising safety, cleanroom integrity or process requirements.

Benefits

• Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges
• We empower all passionate technology loving professionals by allowing them to expand their skills and take part in inspiring projects
• Expleo Academy - enables you to acquire and develop the right skills by delivering a suite of accredited training courses
• Competitive company benefits
• Always working as one team, our people are not afraid to think big and challenge the status quo

• As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we have committed to:
• Ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible
• Communicating and promoting vacancies
• Offering an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job
• Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments as required
• Supporting any existing employee who acquires a disability or long-term health condition, enabling them to stay in work at least one activity that will make a difference for disabled people

“We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age”.

We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive