Job Description

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.

The 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 Responsibilities

Manufacturing & 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 materials
• Accurate measurement and mixing of adhesives and bonding compounds following specified ratios and procedures
• Ability to use basic hand tools, dispensers, scales, and measuring devices
• Ability to identify part orientation, bond lines, and critical features on composite components
• Capability to follow step-by-step manufacturing processes without deviation

Quality & Documentation Skills:

• Strong attention to detail to ensure parts meet engineering and quality requirements
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, process specifications, drawings, and visual aids
• Accurate completion of production documentation, routers, inspection checklists, and electronic tracking systems
• Ability to recognize defects (e.g., voids, contamination, misalignment) and escalate concerns appropriately
• Understanding of the importance of traceability and compliance in an aerospace manufacturing environment

Quality & Compliance:

• Perform visual inspections of bonded assemblies to ensure conformance to quality standards
• Identify and report defects, deviations, or non-conformances to supervision or quality personnel
• Accurately complete production documentation, routers, checklists, and electronic records
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, FAA, and internal GKN Aerospace quality requirements

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement:

• Work effectively as part of a production team
• Participate in training, cross-training, and continuous improvement activities
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality

Safety & Compliance Skills:

• Knowledge of and adherence to safety procedures related to chemicals, adhesives, and composite materials
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, respirators, and eye protection
• Ability to follow Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and hazard communication requirements
• Commitment to maintaining a Foreign Object Debris (FOD)-free work environment

Behavioral & Professional Skills:

• Dependable with consistent attendance and adherence to shift schedules
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment
• Willingness to follow direction, accept feedback, and apply corrective actions
• Demonstrated motivation to learn new skills and progress within composite manufacturing
• Basic communication skills to effectively report issues and collaborate with team members and supervision

Job Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required
• 2 - 5 years of experience in aerospace or manufacturing environments
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions
• Basic math skills (measurement, mixing ratios, decimals, fractions)
• Familiarity with hand tools, measuring devices, or basic manufacturing equipment

• Experience working in a regulated or quality-driven environment
• 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.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to weight 25–35 lbs.
• Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and machinery
• PPE required (gloves, safety glasses, respirators, protective clothing as applicable)

Equal Opportunity Statement

GKN 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 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. ​
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