Press Operation

• Operate an assigned hydraulic press safely and efficiently throughout the shift.
• Produce composite components in line with Manufacturing Instructions, process specifications, and production schedules.
• Monitor press performance, product quality, and cycle times, escalating any issues promptly.
• Carry out routine operator checks, inspections, and quality checks to ensure products meet the required standard.
• Complete all required production, quality, and traceability documentation accurately and on time.
• Report equipment faults, quality concerns, safety issues, or production delays to the Team Leader.

Press Setting and Changeovers

• Carry out mechanical and thermal setup of hydraulic presses during tool changes and product changeovers.
• Set pressure, temperature, dwell times, and process parameters in line with approved specifications.
• Operate Langzauner and Bipo hydraulic presses, including 300 to 400 ton presses, where trained and authorised to do so.
• Safely operate steam rigs and heated platen systems in line with training, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Verify that presses are correctly set and safe before releasing them back into production.
• Support efficient changeovers to minimise downtime and maintain production output.

General Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-use checks and routine equipment inspections.
• Work in line with PUWER, Health and Safety, quality procedures, and Manufacturing Instructions at all times.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards through 5S and keep the work area clean, safe, and organised.
• Support continuous improvement activity by identifying practical opportunities to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and production flow.
• Assist with training and coaching operators where required.
• Work flexibly across the manufacturing area to support production requirements and changing priorities.

The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities.

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.

Experience

Essential

• Experience operating hydraulic presses within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Experience supporting or carrying out press setups, tool changes, or process changeovers.
• Understanding of mechanical and thermal press setup requirements, including pressure, temperature, dwell times, and process parameters.
• Knowledge of hydraulic presses, steam rigs, or heated platen systems.
• Able to follow Manufacturing Instructions, process specifications, and engineering documentation accurately.
• Strong understanding of Health and Safety requirements, with the ability to work safely and follow defined procedures.
• Good attention to detail, with a clear commitment to product quality, traceability, and right first-time production.
• Able to work independently when required, while also supporting the wider production team.
• Experience of using AI tools or demonstrates a willingness to learn and apply AI in role.

Desirable

• Experience within composites, aerospace, automotive, or Defence manufacturing.
• PUWER training or equivalent awareness.
• Forklift or overhead crane certification.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.

Health, Safety & Quality

Compliance with company Health & Safety policies, PUWER regulations, quality procedures, and manufacturing standards is mandatory. Employees are expected to work safely at all times, report hazards promptly, and contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient working environment.

What Do We Do at NP Aerospace?

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.

Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations.

Founded in 1926, 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

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. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.

Data Privacy

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.