Who are we:
Auxitrol Weston Operating Unit (OU) consists of 3 manufacturing plants, Auxitrol SAS (France), Weston Aerospace Ltd (UK), Auxitrol Weston (Mexico), with 3 R&D departments in France, UK and Norwich Aero Products Inc (US) along with 4 repair capabilities in France, UK, US & Singapore.
Role & Job Summary
Job Purpose
Set up and operate electron beam welding equipment to join precision metal components in accordance with approved drawings, welding procedures and work instructions. Deliver consistent weld quality, maintain accurate production records and work safely within the limits of training and authorisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, welding specifications and production instructions before starting work.
- Check component identification, joint preparation, cleanliness, fit-up and tooling before loading parts into the welding fixture.
- Set up the machine, fixtures and approved programmes; verify welding parameters, beam alignment, and vacuum conditions against the authorised procedure.
- Monitor welding cycles and equipment indications, stopping and escalating abnormal conditions or deviations.
- Carry out visual and dimensional checks within the scope of training; identify and segregate non-conforming components and refer them to Quality.
- Record component and batch traceability, programme or procedure references, welding parameters and inspection results as required.
- Perform authorised routine cleaning and operator maintenance, report faults, and coordinate specialist repairs with Maintenance.
- Work with Production, Engineering and Quality to investigate defects, support approved trials, and improve process consistency.
- Maintain an orderly work area and protect components from damage or contamination.
Safety and Operating Authority
- Follow site risk assessments, machine instructions and controls for high-voltage equipment, X-ray radiation, vacuum systems and moving machinery.
- Use required protective equipment and follow safe handling, chemical-control and emergency procedures.
- Never bypass guards, shielding or interlocks. Stop work and report unsafe conditions immediately.
- Undertake maintenance only when trained and authorised, following approved isolation procedures. Refer high-voltage and radiation-safety work to designated competent personnel.
- Use only approved procedures and programmes; obtain authorisation before changing parameters outside permitted limits or undertaking rework.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Experience in precision manufacturing, welding or controlled machine operation, with the ability to complete role-specific EBW training and authorisation.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, tolerances and written work instructions.
- Competence in using relevant measuring equipment and recording results accurately.
- Strong attention to detail, a disciplined approach to safety and quality, and willingness to stop and escalat… concerns.
- Clear communication, practical problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently within defined procedures and as part of a team.
Desirable
- Previous electron beam welding machine setting or operating experience.
- Relevant engineering apprenticeship, vocational qualification or equivalent practical experience.
- Familiarity with vacuum systems, computer-controlled welding equipment, fixtures and weld-defect recognition.
- Experience of traceability, controlled documentation and non-conformance processes in a quality-controlled manufacturing environment.
Qualifications and Training
Complete equipment-specific training and demonstrate competence before working independently. Maintain any operator approvals required by the employer, applicable welding procedures or customer specifications. Inspection, programme changes and maintenance duties must remain within the individual’s documented authorisation.
Physical and Working Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive production tasks.
- Ability to handle materials within defined safe limits and use mechanical aids when required.
- Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with machinery noise, oils and metal components.
- Willingness to wear prescribed personal protective equipment and work allocated shifts, including overtime where agreed.
- Any physical requirements must be applied reasonably and with appropriate workplace adjustments.
Competencies
- C Customer Focus Knows and understands the needs of internal and external customers. Is results oriented and works hard to consistently provide exceptional service.
- Ethics and Values Adheres to an effective set of core values and beliefs and acts in accordance. Rewards the right values and disapproves of others.
- Problem Solving Looks beyond the obvious to find effective solutions.
- Integrity and Trust Widely trusted and seen as direct and truthful.
- Functional/Technical Skills Possesses the skills to be effective in the job. Has the skills to perform the job at a high level of accomplishment.
- Listening Practices active and attentive listening, able to hear others.
- Action-oriented Full of energy, willing to take action.
- Composure Cool under pressure, not knocked off balance by the unexpected, is a settling influence
- Values Diversity Supports fair and equal treatment for all.
