Production Operative
Location: Portsmouth
Hours: Monday–Thursday 07:30–16:15 | Friday 07:30–16:00 (every other Friday off)
Contract: With potential to be Permanent
About the Company
We are a leading aerospace manufacturer, specialising in the design, manufacture, maintenance and repair of safety‑critical and fire‑proof systems, including engine fuel tanks, flotation devices and related aerospace components. Our products support both commercial and defence aerospace programmes, where quality, precision and safety are paramount.
We pride ourselves on high manufacturing standards, strong teamwork and a culture built around accountability, integrity and continuous improvement.
The Role
We are recruiting Production Operatives to support our manufacturing and maintenance operations across a range of aerospace products. This is a hands‑on role involving the assembly, manufacture, repair and overhaul of safety‑critical components using detailed instructions, technical drawings and defined processes.
The role may involve work across production, MRO (maintenance/repair/overhaul) and fuel or flotation system assembly, depending on operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Manufacture, assemble and repair aerospace components in line with drawings, SOPs and process specifications
- Operate machinery and equipment including RF welders, presses and hand tools
- Use adhesives, solvents, lacquers and chemicals safely and in accordance with procedures
- Cut, mark, prepare and assemble materials using templates and instructions
- Carry out inspection activities to ensure components are fit for purpose
- Complete route cards and production records accurately, ensuring 100% compliance
- Maintain a clean, safe and organised work area
- Adhere strictly to health, safety and quality standards
- Support continuous improvement and team objectives
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Strong attention to detail and a quality‑focused mindset
- Ability to follow technical instructions and work to defined processes
- Good manual dexterity and willingness to undertake manual tasks
- Reliable, punctual and able to work well as part of a team
- Comfortable standing or sitting for extended periods
- Able to read, write and communicate effectively in English
Desirable (training can be provided):
- Experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment
- Ability to read technical drawings
- Use of hand tools or machinery
- Welding, sewing or assembly experience
- Experience working with chemicals or coatings
- MRO or aerospace experience
Working Environment
- Manufacturing and workshop‑based role
- Use of PPE is mandatory (safety footwear, overalls, eye protection)
- Some roles may involve working in confined spaces or at height
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Generous salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Company sick pay
- 9‑day working fortnight
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Retail and lifestyle discounts
- Cycle to Work scheme
- 24/7 health and wellbeing support
- Opportunity to develop skills within a leading aerospace environment
Interested?
If you are detail‑driven, hands‑on and interested in working on mission‑critical aerospace products, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to take the next step in your manufacturing career.