Job Description – Composites Manufacturing Inspector

The key purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Inspector at SSTL is to provide independent assurance that composite materials, components, sub-assemblies, spacecraft hardware and their associated records conform to SSTL engineering drawings, approved manufacturing processes, programme requirements and applicable customer and space-industry standards before progressing through manufacture, assembly, integration, test or final release.

Working within SSTL’s high-precision spacecraft production environment in the UK, the inspector verifies dimensional and visual quality, composite-process compliance, material and product traceability, workmanship and production documentation; witnesses designated inspection points; and identifies, records and supports the resolution of non-conformances. The role safeguards product integrity, mission reliability and flight safety by preventing incomplete, non-conforming or unverified hardware from entering downstream operations or being presented for customer acceptance.

Key Responsibilities

· Inspect composite materials, components and spacecraft hardware against SSTL drawings, specifications and acceptance criteria.

· Witness and sign off Key and Mandatory Inspection Points across manufacture, assembly, integration and test.

· Complete inspection and configuration records, ensuring accurate identification and full traceability of flight hardware.

· Raise and control non-conformances, support investigation and disposition, and prevent unverified hardware from progressing.

· Support product acceptance, audits and customer or supplier inspections, working closely with Manufacturing, AIT, Engineering and PA/QA.

· Drive defect prevention and continuous improvement while complying with SSTL, ECSS, programme and UK safety requirements.

· Maintain a clean, organised inspection area in line with housekeeping, FOD and contamination-control requirements.

Person Specification

Key Requirements

· ONC/HNC, apprenticeship or equivalent practical qualification in mechanical, production or manufacturing engineering.

· Experience inspecting composite components or other high-precision hardware within an aerospace, space or similarly regulated environment.

· Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances and manufacturing documentation.

· Competence using calibrated dimensional inspection equipment and completing clear, accurate inspection records within a demanding production environment.

· Working knowledge of non-conformance, traceability and quality-management controls.

· Strong attention to detail, sound judgement and effective communication, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.