Date Posted: 2026-08-27 Country: United Kingdom Location: Kilkeel, Newry, Mourne and Down Position Role Type: Onsite
At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. At our Kilkeel Facility, we manufacture aircraft interior seating for a number of worldwide customers. As a leader in the aerospace industry, we have a number of exciting positions available right now, including a Master Assembler in our Seating business located in Kilkeel, Northern Ireland.
The successful candidate can expect to:
- Ensure a safe working environment is provided at all times.
- Create a culture of Continuous Improvement within the area/team.
- Manage the performance and quality of a team of operators to ensure they meet all Company objectives.
- Drive quality standards required by the Company and customer.
- Deliver 100% First Pass Yield for their process.
- Consistently meeting the takt time in their area.
- Act as a ‘hands on’ expert, providing guidance and practical assistance to those within the team.
- Cross-train the team to ensure maximum flexibility and cover.
Main Duties
Main Duties 1. Leading a team Lead, encourage and motivate a team of operators to ensure they understand and attain the necessary operational targets (e.g. Safety, Output, Quality, Delivery and Cost ) Manage operator performance on a daily basis, ensuring all operators within the area adhere to company policies/procedures and working instructions/standard work, at all times. Ensure all staff in the area are correctly trained and developed. Assist the Manufacturing Leader/Business Unit Manager in the assessment of performance, the design of training packages and the delivery of ‘on’ and ‘off’ line/section training interventions. Provide mentoring/coaching to those within the team on an on-going basis and give appropriate feedback. Lead Production Walk-About Reviews (WAR) on an ad hoc basis. Ensure good communication throughout all sections and between nightshift and dayshift operations. 2. Implementation of Master Production Plan Prepare, maintain & execute the most cost effective build plan to support the kitting schedule which supports production build. Organise rotas to ensure appropriate deployment of staff, ensuring OT is planned and all activities within the area (e.g. 5S’s, Training, Improvement teams) are efficiently organised. Make necessary adjustments to the assembly section/processes and resources in the event of incomplete/inaccurate information/parts. 3. Process Knowledge & Practical Skills Effectively operate (only if trained) all machines within the designated area/unit Proficient in the use of a range of IT packages (e.g. Excel, Microsoft packages). Perform basic mathematical calculations (e.g. calculate start/finish times for specific jobs, takt time etc). 4. Environmental, Health & Safety Possess a working knowledge of Environmental, Health & Safety policies, ensuring these are adhered to at all times. Identify potential hazards and take appropriate action to eliminate. For longer term actions ensure containment is in place. Participate fully in a number of H&S activities (e.g., Risk Assessments, Health & Safety meetings) and implement required actions. Engage in regular hazard/danger spotting and proactively work to eliminate hazards. Conduct ongoing inspection of tooling for worn / damaged parts. 5. Improvement Activity Lead the creation of a culture of Continuous Improvement within the team. Lead improvement teams (e.g., Kaizen and problem solving activities), when required and promote a lean manufacturing culture. Ensure process problems are thoroughly investigated and all improvements are identified, implemented and documented. Conduct daily 5S and standard work audits. 6. Information gathering/sharing Complete all specified documentation to ensure individuals receive the information they require in order to perform their job effectively. Deliver effective daily team briefs as required Attend and provide constructive input at meetings (e.g. daily production meeting, departmental meeting, quality meetings etc). Liaise with a variety of job holders, across a range of departments (e.g. Quality, Engineering, Planning, EHS etc) and different levels (shop floor through to senior management) for the purpose of giving/receiving information which is vital for the smooth running of the plant.
The Person
- Collaborates Building partnerships and working together with others for the greater good
- Communicates Effectively Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
- Courage Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said
- Customer Focus Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
- Develops Talent Taking an active role in the growth of yourself and others to meet both career and organizational goals
- Drives Results Consistently achieves results, even under tough circumstances and empowers others to do the same.
- Instills Trust Gaining the confidence of others through integrity, credibility, and authenticity
- Strategic Vision Seeing ahead to future possibilities and translating them into breakthrough strategies.
Essential Criteria
- Have a minimum of 12 months’ assembly / production / logistics / manufacturing experience gained in a fast paced manufacturing environment.
- Continuous Improvement/Lean Manufacturing experience.
- Proven ability to train others
- Computer Literate / IT skills, competent with a range of IT packages (e.g. Microsoft packages).
Desirable Criteria
- Previous relevant experience of leading a team in a work environment.
- Problem solving skills, e.g. 3Cs.
Benefits
People are core to what we do. As such, we are committed to providing an industry leading benefits package. We offer a highly competitive salary, annual bonus, and many other benefits to include:
- 25 days Annual Leave & 9 Public Holidays
- Attractive Compensation Package
- Early finish Fridays
- Hybrid Work Options (*Role dependent)
- Professional Development + Growth
- Support with professional fees
- EAP (Employee Assistance Programme)
- Healthcare benefits (including healthcare cash plan)
- Staff Discounts
- Work/Life Balance
- Wellness Programs
- Employee Recognition
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Free onsite parking
- Death in Service Benefit
- Generous Employer Contribution Pension Scheme
- Opportunities for progression and development
RTX adheres to the principles of equal employment. All qualified applications will be given careful consideration without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Privacy Policy and Terms: to read the Policy and Terms RTX is an aerospace and defense company that provides advanced systems and services for commercial, military and government customers worldwide. It comprises three industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon. Its 195,000 employees enable the company to operate at the edge of known science as they imagine and deliver solutions that push the boundaries in quantum physics, electric propulsion, directed energy, hypersonics, avionics and cybersecurity. The company, formed in 2020 through the combination of Raytheon Company and the United Technologies Corporation aerospace businesses, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Master Assembler in Kilkeel
✨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 Prattwhitney, 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!
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 Prattwhitney 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 Prattwhitney
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Prattwhitney, 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 Prattwhitney 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.
