Lead CNC Machinist

Job Description Summary GE Aerospace - Dowty, we design, manufacture, repair and overhaul a range of carbon fibre composite propeller systems for military and civil applications from our new state of the art headquarters facility in Brockworth, Gloucestershire, UK.

In this role you will be part of the NPI team to provide support to the growing demand for new propeller manufacturing systems and contribute to develop the next generation of electrified, sustainable aviation. You will be a highly valued member of the Manufacturing Engineering department who are empowered across GE to ensure design intent is correctly translated using our production system.

You will ensure design for manufacturing remains a key focus during the development cycle of our products. Through development and pilot production you will provide feedback to the design team, aid the design team in resolving issues, supply documentation, tooling, and training to allow the product to be built in a clean manufacturing environment.

You will be in charge of developing all CNC related aspects required on new products as well as support development trials. You will also be driving the start of our journey toward a fully automated assembly process as we look to provide the industrial base for high volume manufacture of composite propeller blades and systems.

With a focus on manufacturability, you will help contribute to the development of new processes, facilities and capabilities and assist with the adoption of automation and new technologies to ensure repeatability and reliability in the manufacturing process. Job Description Job Responsibilities

• Keeping yourself, the ME team, and the business safe and compliant in all your daily tasks.
• Representing the NPI team as the subject matter expert on CNC mill and lathe machining, 2D CNC cutting tables and laser projection programmes. Able to create, validate and continuously improve CNC programmes for prototype development products.
• Act as a metrology (NDT/CMM/Laser Scanning) focal for the NPI team. Author CMM/Laser programmes and investigate latest technologies for best-in-class inspection.
• Leading the automation strategy for new products on material handling, machining and composite layup and moulding (RTM). Create floorplans, process flows and tool designs to demonstrate an optimal facility across SQDC metrics.
• Working simultaneously with engineering optimise the manufacturability of new products in development using DFM/DFA guidelines.
• Interpreting and modifying PLC code as part of continuous improvement or root cause corrective action workstreams post-installation.
• Devise installation and commissioning plans whilst working with contractors, line builders and suppliers to support the installation and commissioning of new facilities.
• Identifying key characteristics and controls to define process specifications to define inspection strategies.
• Execute structured problem solving and robust root cause corrective actions (RCCA).
  
  

Minimum Qualifications, Experience And Characteristics

• Able to interpret 2D (legacy) drawings, technical specifications, and review manufacturability challenges and production solutions.
• Experience with online programming of CNC machine tools with Fanuc/ISO and Heidenhain CNC controllers.
• Able to offline programme CNC lathes and milling machines using CAD/CAM software (ideally Catia V5).
• Knowledge of machining using simultaneous 5 axis machining strategies.
• Experience using 3D Modelling and drafting CAD software (preferably CATIA V5).
• Able to program and operate CMM/Laser Scanning technologies (ideally using Modus or Polyworks software).
• Expertise in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), in accordance with BS308-3 AND ASME Y14.5.
• Excellent written and verbal communications.
• Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Conscientious, tenacious and positive outlook with a can-do attitude and a real appetite to learn.
  
  

Desired Qualifications, Experience And Characteristics

• Experience specifying, installing or maintaining electromechanical (Servo/VFD/HMI) and pneumatic systems.
• Able to programme PLC code and direct maintenance of robotic automated production cells.
• Experience developing facility plans in a fast-paced automated environment (FMCG, warehouse, logistics, automotive).
• Experience in the manufacture, machining and assembly of carbon fibre composite and high precision machined metallic components.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma and/or Red-X practitioner with a knowledge and a deep interest in continuous improvement.
  
  

Flexible Working

Dowty a GE Aerospace Company supports and encourages flexible working arrangements, where possible, and recognises the benefits to employees of having a positive work-life balance.

Total Reward

At Dowty we understand the importance of Total Reward. Our flexible benefits plan, called FlexChoice, gives you freedom, choice and flexibility in the way you receive your benefits, as well as giving you the opportunity to make savings where possible.

As a new joiner to Dowty we are pleased to be able to offer you the following as default in your benefit fund, which you then can tailor to meet your individual needs;

• Non-contributory Pension
• Performance related bonus
• Life Assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical cover
• Holiday Hourly equivalent of 26 days, with flexible option to buy or sell
  
  

Security Clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. Please note that in the event that BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may not be eligible for the role and/or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security. Please see the link below for further details regarding the requirements for BPSS clearance: BPSS

Right to Work

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, under the applicable UK immigration rules as may be in place from time to time, it may be that candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK may not be appointed to a post if a suitably qualified, experienced and skilled candidate who does not require sponsorship is available to take up the post. For further information please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: No