At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and manage production schedules for advanced satellite-electronics programmes.
- Company: Leading organisation in the space sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Permanent role with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with potential for career advancement.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and contribute to cutting-edge space technology.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in production planning or AIT, with Lean/Six Sigma experience.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
A leading organisation within the space sector is seeking a Production AIT Planner to support the manufacturing and delivery of advanced satellite-electronics programmes. Working as part of an active engineering and operations function, you will play a key role in orchestrating production schedules, AIT workflows, and shop-floor execution throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. You will work closely with Design, Procurement, Quality, Test, and Logistics teams to drive operational efficiency, resolve production bottlenecks, and ensure complex space hardware progresses smoothly from initial routing through to final delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and manage the production schedule and AIT workflows, including developing routings and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for satellite-electronics programmes.
- Drive continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) across the production floor and AIT labs to increase throughput, reduce rework, and improve first-time-right rates.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams (Design, Procurement, Quality, Test, Logistics) to resolve bottlenecks, technical issues, and configuration changes.
- Maintain accurate production data, risk registers, and status reporting using MES/ERP and AIT-specific tools.
- Ensure compliance with space industry standards (ECSS, ISO 9001) and programme-specific configuration-control processes.
- Work alongside Quality Assurance to embed in-process inspections, non-conformance (NC) tracking, and swift closure while ensuring activities meet required certification test sequences.
- Present technical status data clearly to senior leadership and external customers/agencies (e.g. ESA, UK Space Agency), while training junior planners and technicians on production procedures.
What We're Looking For
- 4+ years of experience in production planning, manufacturing operations, or AIT within the space, satellite-electronics, or high-tech defence sectors.
- Proven track record planning and controlling complex, multi-discipline hardware programmes.
- Hands-on experience with MES/ERP tools and AIT production workflows.
- Strong process-improvement background with a Lean / Six Sigma qualification (Green Belt minimum).
- Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Desirable Experience
- Experience across space flight hardware, phased array antennas, or on-board processing technologies.
- Familiarity with spacecraft-level or unit-level AIT campaigns.
- Exposure to ESA / UK Space Agency frameworks and ECSS standards.
Security Vetting Note
Compliance: Please note successful candidates will be required to undergo BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) screening, including right-to-work, identity, criminal record, and a minimum of 3 years of employment history checks, as part of the onboarding process.
Production AIT Planner in Didcot employer: Practicus
As a leading organisation in the space sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. Our employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth, offering unique opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in Manchester, Stevenage, or Harwell. With a focus on quality and reliability, we empower our software engineers to make significant contributions to advanced space systems while enjoying a balanced work-life with a four-day on-site schedule.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production AIT Planner in Didcot
✨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 Practicus, 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 Production AIT Planner in Didcot
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 Practicus 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 Practicus
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Practicus, 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 Practicus 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.
