At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manufacture and inspect aerospace gears using advanced CNC machines.
- Company: Safran, a global leader in aerospace, defence, and space technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private medical insurance, and flexible leave options.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for training and career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects that contribute to a safer, greener world.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in engineering and 5 years in precision machining required.
Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace, space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, the Group employs 110,000 people and generated €31.3 billion in revenue in 2025.
Safran Electronics & Defense is an international company with more than 19,000 employees who bring together expertise and team spirit to design high-technology solutions for the aerospace, defense and space sectors. By combining human and technological intelligence, the company develops products and services for both civil and military customers, operating on land, at sea, in the air and in space.
At Safran, excellence is a journey - and we'd love you to be a part of it. As a trusted global leader in aerospace, defence, and space, we are proud to be a company where diversity, innovation, and opportunity come together to shape a sustainable future.
About Safran Actuation Systems UK: Safran Actuation Systems UK is a world-class centre for the design, manufacture and support of cutting-edge actuation and flight control solutions used across commercial, military and rotary platforms. With major sites in Wolverhampton and Banbury, our teams play a critical role in delivering innovative, reliable and safe systems that keep aircraft performing at their best.
Looking after the people who make Safran great is our priority. We offer a range of flexible benefits designed to support you both in and out of work, including:
- Competitive salary
- Company performance bonus scheme
- Pension scheme - up to 10% employer contribution
- Private medical insurance
- Comprehensive health cash plan
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Flexible benefits programme (buy & sell holiday allowance, discounted gym memberships, Maternity/ adoption leave - up to 52 weeks, first 26 weeks at full pay, subsequent 26 at 50% (basic pay) and Paternity/Non-Pregnant Parent/ Co-adopter leave 4 weeks full pay)
- Structured training & opportunities to progress
Your Role: Safran Aerospace Wolverhampton is looking to recruit Machinists and shopfloor operatives for our Gears manufacturing team. This is an established 'state of the art' machining facility with significant investment in equipment and new technologies, combined with lots of legacy equipment and an experienced workforce. A number of different machinist roles (including CNC Turning, Grinding, 5-axis milling, detailing, benchwork and inspection roles) have been released for new programs and a significant uplift in volume.
The Machinists will be responsible for the set-up, oversight, first line maintenance and product quality output of multiple CNC automated machines, to achieve production volumes. They will also provide support for improvements and development work, working closely with Lead Manufacturers and Manufacture Engineering, learning new skills, and contributing to the overall needs of the team. Shift working and overtime will be required. Full training and support will be provided.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manufacture and inspection of aerospace gears.
- Setting, operating and basic programming / offset manipulation of various machines.
- Working with Manufacturing Engineers to introduce new equipment and parts into the area.
- Working to process layouts, work instructions and drawings.
- Adherence to quality control and compliance systems.
- Problem solving of basic technical issues.
- Materials movement within the cell, SWIP monitoring and availability of tools and equipment.
- Co-ordination of First Line Maintenance and TPM requirements.
- Development of personal skills and capabilities relevant to the Bevel Gears area.
- Support for continuous improvements - active participation on lean events.
- Carrying out all activities in accordance with the EH&S procedures.
We understand that diversity and inclusion make teams stronger. We are committed to fair and equitable employment practices for everyone. We encourage anybody to apply if you can demonstrate a variety of skills and experience relevant to the requirements of this role.
Why Safran?
- A global presence: Be part of a global aerospace, defence & space business with over 100,000 colleagues, across 300 sites in 30 countries.
- Inclusive & empowering environment: We celebrate our differences and believe they make us stronger.
- Innovation at the core: Join our mission to decarbonise aerospace and make the world a safer place.
- Mobility & training opportunities: We can support your ambitions with training, development, a personalised career plan and mobility opportunities.
- Get involved: We have a number of groups and forums across our sites that you can get involved with, including Women at Safran, Diversity at Safran, Sports Clubs, STEM ambassadors, Employee Forum, Charity Partnerships and Wellbeing Programs.
What You'll Bring:
- NVQ Level 3 or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline (Mandatory requirement)
- 5 years experience in a precision engineering / machining environment.
Machinist M/F in Birmingham employer: Safran
At Safran Actuation Systems UK in Banbury, we prioritise our employees' well-being with a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a family-friendly work culture. Our commitment to professional development, coupled with a collaborative environment, empowers you to innovate and grow within the aerospace sector, making a meaningful impact on cutting-edge technologies. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values excellence and fosters continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Machinist M/F in Birmingham
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We think you need these skills to ace Machinist M/F in Birmingham
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 Safran 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 Safran
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Safran, 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 Safran 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.