Composite Operator - Level II - Bonding

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 SummaryThe Composite Operator Level II – Bonding is an advanced-level manufacturing role responsible for performing composite bonding operations in accordance with established work instructions, engineering requirements, and safety standards. This role supports the production of high-quality aerospace composite components while maintaining strict compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.Job ResponsibilitiesManufacturing & Operations:Basic understanding of composite materials, adhesives, sealants, and bonding processes (training provided)Ability to perform surface preparation tasks (cleaning, sanding, masking) using approved methods and materialsAccurate measurement and mixing of adhesives and bonding compounds following specified ratios and proceduresAbility to use basic hand tools, dispensers, scales, and measuring devicesAbility to identify part orientation, bond lines, and critical features on composite componentsCapability to follow step-by-step manufacturing processes without deviationQuality & Documentation SkillsStrong attention to detail to ensure parts meet engineering and quality requirementsAbility to read and interpret work instructions, process specifications, drawings, and visual aidsAccurate completion of production documentation, routers, inspection checklists, and electronic tracking systemsAbility to recognize defects (e.g., voids, contamination, misalignment) and escalate concerns appropriatelyUnderstanding of the importance of traceability and compliance in an aerospace manufacturing environmentQuality & CompliancePerform visual inspections of bonded assemblies to ensure conformance to quality standardsIdentify and report defects, deviations, or non-conformances to supervision or quality personnelAccurately complete production documentation, routers, checklists, and electronic recordsEnsure compliance with AS9100, FAA, and internal GKN Aerospace quality requirementsTeamwork & Continuous ImprovementWork effectively as part of a production teamParticipate in training, cross-training, and continuous improvement activitiesMaintain regular attendance and punctualitySafety & Compliance SkillsKnowledge of and adherence to safety procedures related to chemicals, adhesives, and composite materialsProper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, respirators, and eye protectionAbility to follow Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and hazard communication requirementsCommitment to maintaining a Foreign Object Debris (FOD)-free work environmentBehavioral & Professional SkillsDependable with consistent attendance and adherence to shift schedulesAbility to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced production environmentWillingness to follow direction, accept feedback, and apply corrective actionsDemonstrated motivation to learn new skills and progress within composite manufacturingBasic communication skills to effectively report issues and collaborate with team members and supervisionJob QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED required2 - 5 years of experience in aerospace or manufacturing environmentsAbility to read, understand, and follow written instructionsBasic math skills (measurement, mixing ratios, decimals, fractions)Familiarity with hand tools, measuring devices, or basic manufacturing equipmentExperience working in a regulated or quality-driven environmentMust 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. Physical & Work Environment RequirementsAbility to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periodsAbility to lift and carry materials up to weight 25–35 lbs.Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and machineryPPE required (gloves, safety glasses, respirators, protective clothing as applicable)Equal Opportunity StatementGKN Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, 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 WorkingEveryone 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.