At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on lab tests and inspections to ensure product integrity and compliance.
- Company: Join Airbus, a leader in aerospace innovation with a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, profit share, health insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for personal development and international mobility.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in materials science while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Materials Science or related field; lab experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
SECURITY CLEARANCE: You will be subject to a BPSS check (including a criminal record check).
TRAVEL REQUIRED: Occasional travel within UK.
LOCATION: Broughton.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU:
- Financial Reward: Competitive salary, annual profit share, contributory pension, share options, car leasing scheme, free onsite parking, season ticket loan, tax-free technology scheme, shopping discounts and much more.
- Work / Life Balance: 35 hour week. This may include Days, Double-days and Nightshift. Due to site ramp up there are currently multiple positions available across these shifts with differing shift premiums, flexible working, option to buy/sell holiday.
- Personal Development: Personalised development plan, Airbus Leadership University and unlimited access to 10,000+ E-learning courses, internal mobility including international opportunities.
- Health & Wellbeing: Bupa health insurance, wellbeing benefits (including 24/7 online GP and mental health support), discounted family health/dental insurance/eye tests, cycle-to-work scheme, on-site canteen and coffee shop, lunchtime yoga/meditation.
- Family and Caregiving: Life assurance, enhanced pay for maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave and caregiving.
About the Role: The Laboratory Specialist is responsible for conducting a wide range of hands-on laboratory tests and inspections to validate material properties, product integrity, and process compliance. This role involves metallographic preparation and analysis, mechanical testing, and auditing of special manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in materials science combined with practical laboratory experience and a thorough understanding of industrial processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Mechanical Testing: Perform and document a variety of mechanical tests including tensile and hardness (Vickers, Knoop) in accordance with AITM, ASTM, ISO, and other relevant standards. Operate, calibrate, and maintain mechanical testing equipment. Analyse test data, generate comprehensive reports, and communicate results to engineering and production teams.
- Metallography and Materials Analysis: Conduct metallographic sample preparation, including sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching of various metallic alloys. Perform microscopic examinations to evaluate microstructural features such as grain size, phase distribution, weld penetration, and coating thickness. Utilise microscopy techniques to identify defects, inclusions, and anomalies. Support failure analysis investigations by providing detailed microstructural evaluation.
- Process Inspection and Control: Collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions. Have knowledge of and be able to provide technical support regarding heat treatments, chemical surface treatments, mechanical surface treatments, and corrosion inhibiting coatings. Develop and maintain laboratory procedures and work instructions. Ensure all testing and inspection activities are accurately documented in the quality management system. Interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and standards to determine testing and inspection requirements.
Qualifications and Skills Required:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- Proven experience in a hands-on laboratory environment undertaking materials testing.
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of metallography and mechanical testing principles.
- In-depth understanding of special processes, specifically heat treatments, chemical/mechanical surface treatments, and coating systems.
- Ability to interpret technical specifications and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, AMS).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
- Proficient in technical report writing and data analysis.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Preferred:
- Experience in a similar role within industry.
- Experience with failure analysis and root cause investigation techniques.
- Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods.
- Knowledge of quality management systems such as ISO 9001, ISO17025.
- Hands-on experience with advanced analytical equipment such as Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM).
This role is a shift-based role on early shift, late shift, and nightshift on a rota basis.
How we can support you: Many of our staff work flexibly in many different ways, including part-time. Please talk to us at the interview about the flexibility you need and we’ll always do our best to accommodate your request. Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments for the selection process – you can share this with your Talent Acquisition Partner if you are invited to interview. Examples may include (but not exclusive to) accessible facilities; auxiliary aids; room layout, etc. Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence. As a Disability Confident Employer, Airbus UK will offer an interview to any applicant that considers themselves to have a disability or long-term condition and meets the minimum criteria of the role (as set out in the job advert). To opt in, just select the option during your application submission and our Talent Acquisition team will contact you.
This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.
Company: Airbus Operations Limited
Employment Type: Permanent
Experience Level: Professional
Job Family: Testing
Laboratory Specialist in Broughton employer: Airbus
Airbus Operations Limited is an exceptional employer located in Broughton, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, extensive benefits including health insurance and flexible working arrangements, as well as personalised development plans and access to over 10,000 e-learning courses, Airbus fosters an inclusive environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Specialist in Broughton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your hands-on lab experience. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role of Laboratory Specialist.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in the interviewer's mind and show your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Laboratory Specialist role. We love seeing applications directly from motivated candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Specialist in Broughton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Laboratory Specialist role. Highlight your relevant experience in materials science and laboratory testing, and don’t forget to mention any specific techniques or equipment you’ve worked with that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills make you a perfect fit. Be sure to reference the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description to show you understand what’s required.
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data analysis and reporting, make sure to showcase your analytical skills in your application. Include examples of how you've successfully interpreted data or solved problems in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to our recruitment team. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your materials science and metallurgical engineering knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific testing methods, like tensile and hardness tests, and how they relate to industry standards like ASTM and ISO. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share examples from your hands-on laboratory experience. Talk about specific projects where you conducted metallographic analysis or mechanical testing. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this demonstrates your problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be working closely with engineering and production teams, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. Good communication is key, so think of ways to convey your ideas clearly and effectively during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on or how the team collaborates on troubleshooting process deviations. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
