Mechanical/Test Technician in Harwell

Expleo is a leading Global Engineering Services Provider with a UK presence in 10 locations. As part of our continued support to our customer in the space sector, we are looking for Mechanical/Test Technicians. The role will be based at our customer’s facility in Harwell, and candidates should be prepared to work onsite five days a week. This is an exciting opportunity for ambitious individuals to develop and grow their skills in the world of space.

The successful candidate will be engaged in mechanical operations relating to the assembly and operation of test rigs supporting the development of space propulsion systems. This is an area of significant growth within Expleo, where we are expanding our team and demonstrating our commitment to growing our space business. Individuals with energy and drive and with broad expertise are ideal; however, of particular interest would be candidates with space, aerospace, or high‑tech manufacturing experience. This role represents a great opportunity to work on cutting‑edge satellite programmes.

Valued attributes include being a team player who can use their initiative and has a real passion for engineering, with strong attention to detail and a thorough, methodical approach to problem solving.

• Mechanical Build & Assembly Activities
• Preparation of MGSE, fixtures, tooling and test hardware in accordance with procedures
• Mechanical preparation of tubing including measurement, cutting, deburring, facing and internal cleaning
• Tube bending operations including marking, forming, dimensional verification and post‑bend inspection
• Assembly of structural frames and test rigs using laser‑cut and tube‑cut components
• Installation of swaged fittings and associated mechanical joints
• Execution of visual, dimensional and conformity checks to specification
• Handling and assembly of stainless steel and titanium tubing (¼’’ to 1’’ diameter)
• Test Preparation & Execution Activities
• Support pre‑test operations including visual inspections, leak checks and readiness verification
• Setup and configuration of data acquisition systems, pressure sensors, mass‑flow meters and fluid‑regulation devices
• Preparation of test articles including tank flushing, simulant loading and system conditioning
• Execution of test steps such as tank pressurisation, proof testing, pressure‑decay measurements and system characterisation in accordance with approved test procedures
• Direct support during test runs, ensuring safe and compliant operation of all mechanical and fluid systems
• Test close‑out activities including hardware de‑rigging, draining, cleaning and restoration of the test area
• Accurate recording of test observations, anomalies and equipment status

• NVQ level 3 (ONC) in a mechanical engineering/maintenance OR Apprenticeship in Aerospace/Space or other high quality production field.

• Strong practical mechanical aptitude with the ability to work accurately and safely
• Ability to interpret and follow technical procedures, work instructions and specifications
• Competent use of hand tools and basic workshop/mechanical equipment
• Good understanding of safe working practices around mechanical, pressure or fluid systems
• Strong attention to detail with a methodical and disciplined approach to tasks
• Ability to carry out visual checks and basic conformity/quality assessments
• Comfortable working within structured processes and controlled environments
• Clear and confident communication skills within a team‑based engineering setting
• Ability to organise work effectively and manage tasks to meet planned schedules
• Positive attitude toward learning new techniques, tools and processes in a development‑test environment
• Reliable, self‑motivated and able to work with minimal supervision when required

• Familiarity with mechanical assembly techniques such as tube preparation, bending or swaging
• Awareness of pressure systems, fluid handling or mechanical test environments
• Basic understanding of instrumentation principles (e.g., sensors, DAQ, flow or pressure measurement)
• Comfortable working with stainless steel or titanium components, or other precision engineered parts
• Understanding of quality principles such as conformity checks, traceability or controlled documentation
• Appreciation of safe working practices around gases, pressurised systems or hazardous fluids
• Ability to support structured test activities and follow step by step technical procedures
• Exposure to workshop, prototype, development or engineering build environments
• Positive approach to continuous improvement and maintaining organised work areas
• Willingness to develop skills in specialist aerospace/space test methods and tooling

• Experience working in a high‑quality production environment relating to mechanical parts production or assembly & test
• Hands‑on involvement in mechanical build, assembly, fitting or maintenance activities
• Exposure to following technical procedures, work instructions or controlled documentation
• Experience using hand tools, mechanical tooling or basic workshop equipment
• Familiarity with supporting test, development, prototype or rig‑based activities
• Experience working safely around mechanical systems, pressure systems or fluid‑handling equipment
• Exposure to basic inspection tasks such as visual checks, dimensional checks or conformity assessments
• Experience working within structured processes, quality standards or regulated environments

• BPSS cleared
• Ability and willingness to travel to and work on the client’s Harwell site 5 days per week

• Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges
• We empower all passionate technology loving professionals by allowing them to expand their skills and take part in inspiring projects
• ExpleoAcademy - enables you to acquire and develop the right skills by delivering a suite of accredited training courses
• Competitive company benefits
• Always working as one team, our people are not afraid to think big and challenge the status quo
• As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we have committed to:
• Ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible
• Communicating and promoting vacancies
• Offering an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job
• Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments as required
• Supporting any existing employee who acquires a disability or long‑term health condition, enabling them to stay in work

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive.