Manufacturing Engineer Apprenticeship – Machining

Space Forge is a fast growing advanced materials company. Our goal is to exploit the extreme temperature, microgravity and ultra-high vacuum conditions available in low earth orbit (LEO) to manufacture materials that cannot readily be grown terrestrially. Returning these materials to earth, we aim to revolutionise the semiconductor market and to make space work for humanity. To achieve this we have developed a range of technologies including the world’s first returnable and reusable satellite platform, the ForgeStar®.

As a Manufacturing Apprentice you will have the unique chance to learn and develop your skills in a fast-paced environment. You will work alongside our experienced engineers and technicians to gain hands-on experience in the manufacturing of space flight equipment.

In this role, you will:

• Assist in the production and assembly of space flight & semiconductor hardware, following strict procedures and quality standards.
• Operate and maintain manufacturing equipment and tools. Including, but not limited to:
• Lathes
• Manual Milling Machines
• Multi Axis CNC Machines
• Sheet Metal Fabrication Machines
• 3D Printing Machines
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of new manufacturing processes and procedures.
• Perform inspections and tests to ensure products meet specifications.
• Assist in the maintenance of manufacturing documentation and records.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency and quality.
• Work collaboratively with the engineering and operations teams to troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing issues.
• Supporting the maintenance and cleanliness of the manufacturing area and equipment.
• Participating in training programs and courses to enhance technical and professional skills.
• Adhering to health and safety protocols at all times to ensure a safe working environment.

The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for space technology and a willingness to learn and contribute to a dynamic team. No prior experience is necessary.

This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity for hands-on learning and career development in the exciting field of in-space manufacturing. If you are eager to kick-start your career in a cutting-edge industry, we want to hear from you!

Requirements

To be considered for this apprenticeship, you should meet the following requirements:

• Strong interest in manufacturing and engineering.
• Excellent attention to detail and manual dexterity.
• Ability to follow instructions and work accurately in a fast-paced environment.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic computer skills.
• Willingness to learn and take on new challenges.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and tasks.

We are looking for people who are willing to work smartly, think logically, respect others’ abilities and ultimately have an unending appetite to learn a large number of new skills quickly. Space Forge is committed to making super-powered teams of diverse individuals in all senses of the term, therefore women are strongly encouraged to apply and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Benefits

Salary expectation: £15,500 to £19,800 dependent upon experience, knowledge and skill set. At Space Forge, we believe in creating the best possible workplace that suits every single person that joins us.

• Flexible working hours to be worked onsite
• 33 days holiday including bank holidays
• Pension scheme at 4% matched
• Charity or cause you’re passionate about? Up to 5 volunteering days a year to support the things closest to you and make an impact
• Super cool office and factory – the coffee is on us (and it’s certified carbon neutral too, our snazzy machine does anything from the humble americano to a superb flat white)
• Pizza pay day – okay, it’s not always pizza, but if you’re at the office on pay day, lunch is on us
• We’re changing the way humanity builds, we think that’s exciting, and we want you to be excited about it too. That’s why we have an Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP) so you can own part of our journey
• You’re the master of your own destiny. We offer every person at Space Forge a £1500 annual learning budget so you can choose the training or experiences to help you grow
• Your mental health is important! You’ll have access to Spill – an all-in-one mental health support platform offering completely anonymous therapy sessions to our whole team

• Working with a passionate, friendly and highly motivated team
• Maternity / Paternity benefits beyond statutory

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and that starts with hiring diversely. However you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role at Space Forge.

If there are any adjustments that would help improve your experience with Space Forge, please do let us know when you apply. We also believe our interview process should be inclusive and transparent and we take it very seriously. We want to give you time to learn about us while we get to know you. As always, if there is anything missing, or you’ve identified a way we can improve, just let us know!

For this role, have a two-stage interview process:

1. 45-minute Culture and Values video call interview with 2 members of our team
2. 60-minute Skills video call interview related to specific needs of the role with 2 members of the team you’ll be most closely working with.

CLOSING DATE: This application will close on 3rd June 2024 – Please note, you may not get feedback until the position has closed for the team to review applications.