Level 3 Qualified Fabricator (Bristol, GB)

Fabricator Opportunity at GKN Aerospace Filton: A Deep Dive into a Future-Focused Career

GKN Aerospace, a global leader in aviation innovation, is "reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener." For skilled fabricators eager to contribute to the next generation of aerospace, the opportunity at their cutting-edge Filton site offers a compelling career path. This role goes beyond manufacturing; it's an invitation to shape the future of flight, from advanced civil aircraft to vital military components.

Advantages & What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out:

• Impactful & Cutting-Edge Work: As a fabricator at GKN Filton, you will play a crucial role in the design and manufacture of large, complex structural wing assemblies and detailed metallic components for a diverse range of Airbus aircraft. This position offers exposure to advanced materials such as titanium, aluminium, and stainless steel, directly contributing to operational excellence and the security of global democracies.
• Exceptional Career Growth & Development: GKN Aerospace explicitly states, "There are no limits to where you can take your career." As part of a global enterprise serving over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers, you'll find unparalleled learning and development opportunities. The company is committed to providing "some of the best training on offer in the industry," fostering supported career progression and diverse career journeys across its international network.
• Robust Compensation & Comprehensive Benefits Package: The role offers a competitive starting salary of £35,304, quickly rising to £36,750 upon full certification (typically within 3 months). This is significantly enhanced by an attractive shift allowance (up to 33% for night shifts) and an annual bonus of up to 4%. Beyond salary, GKN provides an industry-leading pension scheme (matching contributions up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis), generous life assurance (8x salary), income protection, 175 hours of annual leave plus bank holidays, and a suite of well-being benefits including shopping discounts, a Cycle To Work Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, and a Virtual GP Clinic for you and your immediate family.
• Favorable Work-Life Balance: The position features a highly desirable Monday – Thursday day shift schedule, providing a consistent three-day weekend. For those seeking additional income, there's an excellent opportunity to transition to night shifts post-training, which comes with a substantial 33% shift premium.
• Award-Winning Inclusive Culture: GKN Aerospace prides itself on its "Best Workplace Culture Award" and a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. They foster an environment where "everyone feels welcome to contribute" and is encouraged to "bring their full self to work," emphasizing collaboration among diverse minds in an inspirational setting.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Essential Skills & Foundational Expertise: Candidates must possess a recognised and relevant apprenticeship along with an NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent), demonstrating a solid foundation in manufacturing. Previous experience in a manufacturing environment is crucial, particularly with specific fabrication skills like precussion riveting, and drill/ream/countersink techniques in panels.
• Commitment to Quality & Safety: The role demands a "right first time" approach to manufacturing and a strong adherence to GKNAF Quality Procedures and Health & Safety requirements (HASAWA 1974). Accountability for first-party inspection approval (M02 status, subject to A stamp approval) highlights the high standards expected in aviation.
• Teamwork & Operational Discipline: Success in this role requires the ability to work effectively in small teams, communicate well, and operate diligently within standard operating procedures. This includes timely clearance of work phases using the SAP system and maintaining excellent general housekeeping.
• Opportunities for Specialisation (Desirable Skills): While not essential, candidates with a strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles and techniques, experience operating CNC machinery (such as Unison Pipe Bending machines, Power Presses, CNC Drilling & routering), or expertise in swaging pipework will find themselves exceptionally well-positioned to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and accelerate their impact within the team.

This Fabricator role at GKN Aerospace Filton is more than a job; it's an invitation to become part of a global industry leader dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and the profound professional growth of its people. If you possess the required fabrication expertise and a passion for shaping the future of aviation, this opportunity offers a challenging, rewarding, and long-term career trajectory within an award-winning culture.