At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Process Operator and help manufacture military helmets.
- Company: NP Aerospace, a leader in defence technology with a mission to protect lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, performance rewards, and health benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing business that values your contribution.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; full training provided and a willingness to learn is key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Coventry, UK
Hours: Continental Shift (see job ad for details)
Vacancy Type: Full-time and Permanent
Salary: £28,677.45 base plus £9,463.56 shift allowance, total £38,141 per year
10+ Permanent Positions | Continental Shift | Coventry | Immediate Start
The continental shift starts in August. Join before then and you will start on a temporary non-continental shift pattern until the new shift goes live.
We are looking for people who want to join an exciting and growing business, and who take pride in playing a part in something that matters. We are committed to creating opportunities for people living in and around Coventry or willing to commute, and the work you do here will help NP Aerospace protect lives all over the world.
Due to new operational requirements and increased demand, NP Aerospace is continuing to grow our manufacturing team in Coventry. We are creating a new continental shift to support a new contract and the volume of work that comes with it, and we are looking to bring 20 plus Process Operators into the business as soon as possible.
As a Process Operator, you will work in a busy production cell manufacturing components for defence, including the production of a military helmet. You will follow a production plan set by your Team Leader and carry out tasks in line with clear Manufacturing Instructions, working as part of a supportive team that takes pride in quality, safety and getting the job done right. Depending on business need and your experience, you could be based in one of three cells: CNC cutting, water jet cutting, or press and mouldings. Full training provided, with opportunities to develop skills across CNC cutting, water jet cutting, and press and moulding.
This is a rotating continental shift pattern. You work 4 days on, then 4 days off, on 11.25-hour shifts. Shifts rotate between days and nights.
- Day shift: 6am to 6pm - Two unpaid breaks: 30 minutes and 15 minutes
- Night shift: 6pm to 6am - Two unpaid breaks: 30 minutes and 15 minutes
Your rota will confirm whether you are on days or nights for each 4-day block.
At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. That’s why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career:
- Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities
- Time to recharge: 247.5 hours per year, equivalent to 22 shifts per year
- Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) – subject to approval
- Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions)
- Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary
- Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs
- Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business
- Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose
In this role, you will carry out a range of hands-on production tasks to support safe, consistent output and strong traceability. The key duties and responsibilities are outlined below:
- Prepare and handle raw materials for each workstream, including delivery to the cell, preparation and set up.
- Accurately place cut material shapes into the correct tools and fixtures, including preform tooling and material, moulding tools, vac form tooling, composite tooling and steel tooling.
- Load tools, laminates and preforms safely into the relevant equipment, including compression presses, ovens and autoclaves, following the required process steps.
- Complete lay up activities in line with Manufacturing Instructions and required quality standards.
- Operate presses safely and consistently, maintaining good process discipline and reporting any issues promptly.
- Carry out finishing and assembly of composite components to specification, ensuring the required standard of workmanship and traceability.
- Pack and label finished products correctly, ensuring items are protected, identified and traceable.
- Record production data accurately and on time, completing all required documentation and system updates.
Our team embraces modern technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to work smarter and deliver better results. Candidates should either have experience using AI tools or demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply them in their role.
Reliable and punctual, comfortable with 4 on 4 off shift pattern. Safety first mindset and attention to detail. Happy working to standard work and following instructions. Good hand skills and comfortable with repetitive tasks. Team focused, willing to learn and take feedback.
Able to understand and follow written Manufacturing Instructions and communicate clearly with your Team Leader and colleagues, as the role involves safety critical processes and accurate record keeping. Experience in a busy manufacturing environment is preferred but not essential, as full training will be provided. Previous experience working with composite materials or within the composites industry is an advantage. Experience of using AI tools or demonstrates a willingness to learn and apply AI in role.
NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry. Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture.
NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America.
NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.
Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.
Process Operators in Coventry employer: NP Aerospace Limited
NP Aerospace is an exceptional employer located in Coventry, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and career growth. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including performance rewards and a robust pension scheme, and a commitment to training and development, NP Aerospace empowers its employees to thrive in a meaningful role that contributes to global safety. Join a diverse team dedicated to innovation and collaboration, where your contributions truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Operators in Coventry
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like NP Aerospace Limited, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Process Operators in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to NP Aerospace Limited specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at NP Aerospace Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with NP Aerospace Limited, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like NP Aerospace Limited value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.