Composite Operator Level II - Assembly

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary Under general supervision, the Composite Assembly Operator - Level II independently performs a wide range of manufacturing activities involved in the fabrication, assembly, integration, and machine operations required to manufacture composite parts and assemblies. This role executes complex assembly tasks, supports prototype and development programs, and provides technical assistance and guidance to Level I operators while ensuring compliance with all quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Job Responsibilities Manufacturing, Assembly & Integration:

Independently assemble parts, fittings, and subassemblies for aircraft structures using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, and fasteners such as bolts, screws, rivets, clamps, and chemical bonds Assemble prototypes or integrated-technology demonstrators for new or emerging aircraft environmental technologies in compliance with detailed product specifications and engineering requirements Attach brackets, hinges, clips, fittings, and hardware to secure or support components and subassemblies using mechanical fastening, bonding, or welding methods Perform preparation of components including cleaning, oiling, coating, sealing, or surface treatment prior to assembly or installation Join and integrate structural assemblies such as wings, tails, fuselage sections, and control surfaces in accordance with work orders and approved procedures Lay out, measure, and mark reference points, cut lines, and installation locations using jigs, templates, fixtures, and precision measuring instruments Position, align, and secure subassemblies in jigs or fixtures while verifying dimensional accuracy against blueprints, index points, and specifications Verify dimensions, tolerances, alignment, and clearances of assemblies, cable runs, and fittings using measuring tools including calipers, micrometers, and gauges Ensure proper fit, form, and function by cutting, trimming, filing, bending, smoothing, or reworking components as necessary Fabricate parts, details, and tools required for assembly or installation using shop machinery and manufacturing equipment Splice cables using clamps, fittings, or reweaving cable strands to restore strength and continuity Perform tube, seal, and hose splicing using approved bonding materials and aerospace processes

Quality, Documentation & Troubleshooting:

Interpret and work from engineering drawings, specifications, schematics, and travelers independently Accurately complete production records, inspection documentation, and electronic data entry Identify, document, and communicate nonconformances, defects, or process deviations Perform self-inspection of work and support Quality personnel as required Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing issues and recommend corrective actions

Leadership, Training & Continuous Improvement:

Provide training, guidance, and mentoring to Level I Assembly Operators Support cross training initiatives and process improvement activities Participate in prototype builds, development programs, and continuous improvement efforts Demonstrate leadership by modeling adherence to safety, quality, and operational standards

Safety, Environmental & Housekeeping:

Ensure compliance with all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements Properly handle, store, and dispose of chemicals, materials, and waste Capture and segregate waste materials such as aluminum swarf, cutting fluids, and solvents according to company protocols Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD free work area Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) consistently Job Qualifications High School Diploma or GED 2 - 5 years of experience in aerospace or manufacturing assembly environments Demonstrated experience performing composite fabrication, assembly, and integration tasks; FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License preferred Experience working from engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance requirements, with ability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance if needed.

Required Skills & Abilities:

Advanced mechanical aptitude with proficiency using hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment Strong ability to interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation Knowledge of composite materials, bonding processes, cable systems, and structural assemblies High attention to detail and strong quality mindset Effective communication and teamwork skills Ability to train and support less-experienced employees Capable of working independently with minimal supervision Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods Ability to lift and carry materials up to weight 35-50 lbs. Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, chemicals, and solvents PPE required including gloves, safety glasses, respirators, and protective clothing Equal Opportunity Statement GKN Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go? A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work. We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know. We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology. ​​