Finishing & Surface Preparation Operative | Aerospace

Finishing & Surface Preparation Operative Location: Near Uxbridge, Middlesex Salary: From £35,500 per annum (DOE) + 1.5x Overtime Hours: 37 hours per week (Mon–Thu 08:00–17:00, Fri 08:00–12:00) Benefits: 25 Days Holiday, 9% Non-Contributory Pension, Half-Day Fridays, Free Parking. Are you a detail-oriented technician with a "surgical" approach to surface finishing? We are representing a world-leading aerospace manufacturer near Uxbridge that produces safety-critical components where the finish is just as vital as the machining. We are looking for a Finishing Operative / Surface Prepper who specializes in high-precision work—someone who understands that even a microscopic imperfection can lead to component failure in the field. This role focuses on the intricate "final touch" of aerospace parts, requiring extreme manual dexterity and a deep understanding of surface geometry. The Role: Precision Finishing & Preparation This is not a high-volume "sand and spray" environment. This is meticulous work on complex, high-value components. * Intricate Masking: Executing complex masking requirements on components with varied surface areas, ensuring internal bores and critical threads are protected to sub-millimeter accuracy. * Surface Geometry: Managing abrasive cleaning, shot blasting, and vibration deburring while maintaining the integrity of the part’s dimensions. * Blueprint Interpretation: Fluently reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings to ensure finishing specifications are met exactly. * Micro-Inspection: Conducting rigorous visual and tactile inspections of surfaces for defects, burrs, or contamination before and after coating. * Technical Compliance: Working strictly to aerospace quality standards and COSHH regulations regarding solvents and chemical preparation agents. The Ideal Profile * Precision Background: Substantial experience in finishing, de-burring, or prepping within Aerospace, Medical, or high-end Automotive sectors. * Attention to Detail: You take pride in "perfection" and have the patience required for high-detail, small-surface-area work. * Technical Literacy: Confident using hand tools, air tools, and precision measuring instruments to verify your work. * Compliance Ready: A disciplined approach to Health & Safety and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Important: Security Clearance Due to the nature of the projects, all applicants must have a consistent 5-year UK work history. This role requires BPSS security clearance, which must be completed before you can start. Please note this process can take up to 4 weeks on top of your standard notice period. Why Apply? This is a "career for life" opportunity. You will be joining a stable, prestigious manufacturer that offers an incredible 9% non-contributory pension and excellent long-term security. With a half-day every Friday, you get the perfect balance of high-spec work and personal time