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. Its current flight-time record of over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60,000+ft, or 20km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct-to-device connectivity and high-resolution Earth observation.

AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most of air traffic and low-Earth orbit, Stratospace. This is where high-altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities.

AALTO is growing and we want to hear from people with an innovative, collaborative and growth mindset who would be interested in joining us in the future. While we may not have a vacancy right now, please apply to register your interest and we will contact you when a role becomes available.

About The Role

As a Composite Structures Technician, you will support the manufacture of AALTO’s Zephyr high-altitude platform system and associated Ground Support Equipment, delivering skilled production activity to the required standards of time, cost, quality and safety. You will play a key part in enabling the successful delivery of the HAPS global business case through hands-on aircraft build, integration and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities to include:

· The manufacture and assembly of aircraft structure (both sub-assembly and primary assembly).

· Using 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.

· Post adhesive bonding quality check to meet quality assurance standards.

· Mitigate immediate risks including ‘stop work’ as well as escalate 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.

Skills and Knowledge Required

· Aerospace or Engineering Full Apprenticeship.

· Completed an NVQ Level 03 Qualification in Avionics Engineering or other relevant discipline.

· Strong understanding of ability to read engineering drawings and follow process instructions.

· Strong 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.

· Works well under pressure, works hard to 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 and 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.

In addition to an attractive market-aligned salary, we offer:

Rewarding Excellence: Benefit from our short-term incentive plan that rewards your hard work and dedication.

Enjoy Your Time Off: Benefit from 25 days of holiday to relax and recharge.

Stay Healthy: We’ve got your health covered with private medical insurance, along with dental and optical cash back.

Secure Your Future: Take advantage of our personal pension plan to ensure a comfortable retirement.

Peace of Mind: Our income protection and life assurance schemes are there to support you when you need it most.

Getting around: Drive the latest vehicles with our discounted salary sacrifice scheme.

We Care About You: Our employee assistance programme is always available to provide the support you need.

Perks Galore: Enjoy a range of employee discounts via Perkbox, from household goods to travel!

Does this opportunity excite you but you’re not 100% sure if you meet all the requirements for the role? Or are you concerned that ‘normal’ office hours aren’t possible given your personal circumstances? Whilst we can’t accommodate every flexible working request, we’ll try to find a practical solution. So why not engage with us and find out more about this role?

If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at AALTO, you can register your details here: https://careers.aaltohaps.com/connect