Associate Skilled Operator

Job Title: Associate Skilled Operator

Location: Samlesbury - Full time onsite

Salary: 35,021 (with variable applicable shift allowance)

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you'll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you'll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You'll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space, there's no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Job Description:

This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment supporting the delivery of advanced products and capabilities. Working within a collaborative production team, you will gain hands-on experience across a range of manufacturing processes while developing practical skills in a highly regulated environment. This role offers excellent opportunities for learning, development and career progression within BAE Systems.

Core duties:

There are five manufacturing areas you may be assigned to within this role:

• Supporting composite manufacturing processes, including material preparation, lay-up, curing, de-bagging, rout profiling and repair activities.
• Moving materials, kits and components safely throughout the production environment using approved handling methods.
• Supporting the manufacture and upgrade of small sub-assemblies using bench or floor-mounted jigs and tools.
• Assisting with the preparation and protective spraying of complex components, major assemblies and aircraft.
• Supporting manufacturing activities for fabricated parts, SPFDB assemblies, pipes and bench assemblies, including profiling, chemi-etching, drilling, forming, diffusion bonding, welding and assembly.

All activities will be carried out using engineering drawings, process instructions and quality specifications, while following Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality requirements.

Essential Skills:

• Previous experience in a manufacturing, production or engineering environment preferred, with good manual dexterity and hand tool use.
• Understanding of engineering drawings, work instructions and technical specifications within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of Tool Control, tool calibration, FOD procedures, and Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental standards.

The Air Operations Manufacturing Team:

Working at the heart of Air Operations, this team supports the manufacture of advanced aerospace products through a range of specialist production activities. Combining quality, safety and continuous improvement, it plays a vital role in delivering innovative capabilities while supporting operational performance and future business growth.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you'll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You'll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what's most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 23rd June 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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