Chief Technician – Solid Rocket Motors

About the role

EDGE is seeking an experienced Chief Technician to lead the manufacturing and assembly of solid rocket motor hardware for advanced defence and aerospace programmes. This hands‑on technical leadership position oversees machining, fabrication, inspection and assembly of metallic SRM components.

Key responsibilities

• Lead fabrication and machining of SRM hardware, including motor cases, bulkheads, closures, nozzle components and igniter bodies.
• Manage CNC turning, milling, drilling and precision machining operations in line with engineering drawings and GD&T requirements.
• Supervise and mentor machinists and manufacturing technicians, ensuring safe and efficient workshop operations.
• Own prototype and development hardware schedules, delivering critical components on time.
• Conduct dimensional inspections using CMMs, micrometres, bore gauges and other precision metrology equipment.
• Provide DFMA feedback on designs, develop machining processes, tooling concepts, fixtures and work instructions.
• Lead root‑cause investigations and corrective actions for non‑conformances.
• Manage external machining and fabrication suppliers, reviewing capability and quality.
• Coordinate material procurement, verify certifications and traceability.
• Drive continuous‑improvement initiatives focused on quality, productivity and cost reduction.

Required profile

• Diploma or Technical Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology or related field.
• 10‑15 years of precision metal parts manufacturing experience in aerospace, defence or high‑performance engineering.
• At least 5 years in a senior machinist, manufacturing lead or workshop supervision role.
• Extensive experience operating and programming CNC lathes and machining centres.
• Strong proficiency interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T.
• Hands‑on experience with CMM inspection and dimensional verification.
• Experience manufacturing pressure‑containing or flight‑critical hardware and knowledge of AS9100/FAI requirements.

Required skills

• CNC turning, milling and drilling
• CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360)
• CMM operation and precision metrology
• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Design for Manufacturing & Assembly (DFMA)
• AS9100 aerospace quality standards
• Machining of aerospace alloys (D6AC, 4340 steel, titanium, Inconel)
• Root‑cause analysis and corrective action