Semi Skilled Technician

**PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING: **Recognising the RESTRICTED nature of the work suitable candidates will be baseline level (BPSS) clearable or eligible for this level of clearance**

Role purpose:

Working within GKNs state of the art Global Technology Centre the role will involve operating and maintaining laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) equipment used for the production of 3D printed parts. As part of the companies Additive Manufacturing (AM) arm GKN specializes in Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), an advanced additive manufacturing process that delivers high-precision, fully dense metal components.

This role ensures the efficient setup, calibration, and operation of the system, while closely monitoring build quality, material consistency, and machine performance. The technician will also be responsible for post-processing parts and maintaining a high standard of safety and cleanliness in the workspace

*Suitable candidates must have good hands-on mechanical skills, be able to interpret technical drawings and can follow instructions*

£18 per hour PAYE (holiday pay on top) 6 months initially, with strong extension/perm prospects for the right person

Standard Hours: 37 hours per week (core hours 7am till 4pm with flexi start/finish times)

Shift Pattern: Monday to Thursday with an early finish on Friday's

Key accountabilities:

Machine Operation & Setup:

• Set up and operate Laser Powder Bed Fusion systems (LPBF), including loading metal or polymer powders, setting build parameters, and ensuring correct material handling and storage.
• Prepare, calibrate, and configure the machine for optimal print settings, ensuring part quality and production efficiency.
• Monitor and adjust machine settings during the build process, including laser power, scanning speed, and powder layer thickness.

Quality Control & Monitoring:

• Continuously monitor the build process, detecting and addressing any issues such as material defects, machine malfunctions, or deviations in the build quality.
• Use non-destructive testing methods and visual inspections to verify part accuracy and quality during and after production.
• Ensure part adherence to technical specifications and tolerances.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Perform regular maintenance tasks on the additive manufacturing machines, including cleaning, updating software, and inspecting hardware for wear and tear.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to the machine, including print failures, system errors, and mechanical malfunctions.
• Report and document machine faults and work with the engineering team to implement corrective actions.

Post-Processing & Finishing:

• Remove parts from the build platform and carry out post-processing procedures such as powder removal, heat treatment, and surface finishing.
• Ensure parts are ready for delivery or further processing by adhering to client or project specifications.

Health & Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and regulations related to operating laser powder bed machines, handling metal powders, and working in a high-energy environment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring the safe disposal of waste materials and managing hazardous substances appropriately.
• Participate in safety training sessions and promote safe practices within the team.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Document all relevant operational data, including machine settings, part defects, and performance metrics.
• Generate reports on the status of production runs, machine maintenance, and quality control outcomes.
• Maintain records of machine calibration, maintenance logs, and inventory of materials.

Continuous Improvement:

• Collaborate with technology and design teams to optimize build parameters, reduce material waste, and improve part quality.

Person specification

Essential requirements:

• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude, with the ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
• Attention to detail and quality control.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must be able to lift moderate weights and perform physically demanding tasks in a safe and controlled manner.

Desirable requirements:

• Any basic knowledge of metallurgy and material properties relevant to additive manufacturing would be beneficial though not essential
• Familiarity with safety protocols, including hazardous material handling and laser safety
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment with a focus on operating complex machinery

About Additive Manufacturing:

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a key technology for enabling the next generation of aircraft to improve performance and environmental sustainability. At GKN Aerospace we are continually developing our capability in Laser Powder Bed Additive Manufacturing to meet the standards required for aerospace. Working with the GKN Aerospace Engines business, the team industrialising additive manufacturing technology are based at the UK Global Technology Centre, interacting with GKN specialists across a variety of fields and world class project partners.