Mechanical Assembly Technician – Precision Engineering

About the Opportunity

Placr Recruitment is working with a well-established and highly respected precision engineering manufacturer based in Hailsham, East Sussex, to recruit an experienced Mechanical Assembly Technician.

Our client specialises in the design and manufacture of bespoke, high-performance mechanical and electromechanical equipment used in advanced scientific, research and industrial applications.

This is an excellent opportunity for a practical, detail-oriented engineering professional who enjoys hands-on assembly, working with intricate mechanical components and producing equipment to exceptionally high-quality standards.

You will be joining a skilled manufacturing team, working within a cleanroom environment to assemble specialist ultra-high-vacuum equipment.

The position would suit someone with experience in precision mechanical assembly, mechanical fitting, electromechanical manufacturing, aerospace assembly, pump assembly or similar engineering environments.

The Role

As a Mechanical Assembly Technician, you will be responsible for assembling complex mechanical and electromechanical products from individual components through to completed assemblies.

Working from detailed engineering drawings, technical specifications and assembly instructions, you will ensure that all equipment is assembled accurately, safely and to the required manufacturing standards.

This is a predominantly hands-on position requiring excellent practical engineering skills, attention to detail and the ability to work with small, intricate components.

Key Responsibilities

• You will carry out precision mechanical assembly of bespoke products and subassemblies, using a variety of hand tools, specialist assembly equipment and measuring instruments.
• You will interpret mechanical engineering drawings, technical specifications and assembly documentation to ensure components are fitted correctly and meet the required tolerances.
• The position involves fitting, aligning, securing and adjusting mechanical components, ensuring the accuracy and functionality of completed assemblies.
• You will undertake basic electrical wiring and electromechanical assembly where required, working with components that combine mechanical and electrical functionality.
• Working within a cleanroom environment, you will follow established cleanliness procedures and contamination-control standards to protect sensitive components and finished equipment.
• You will inspect components before and during assembly, identifying defects, damage or dimensional issues and reporting any concerns to the appropriate engineering or quality personnel.
• You will assist with functional testing and inspection of completed assemblies, ensuring products meet technical specifications and quality requirements before progressing through production.
• The role also involves completing assembly records, inspection documentation and other manufacturing paperwork to maintain accurate product traceability.
• You will work closely with production, engineering and quality teams to resolve assembly issues, identify potential improvements and maintain efficient manufacturing processes.
• You will be expected to maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment, following company health and safety procedures and established quality standards.

Skills and Experience Required

• The successful candidate will have previous hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, precision engineering, mechanical fitting or a similar manufacturing environment.
• You must be confident using hand tools and assembling mechanical components accurately, with the ability to follow technical instructions and work to consistent quality standards.
• Experience reading and interpreting mechanical engineering drawings is particularly important, as the role involves assembling specialist equipment to detailed technical specifications.
• You should have good practical mechanical knowledge and an understanding of how components fit together within larger assemblies.
• Experience using precision measuring equipment, such as vernier calipers, micrometers, torque tools or similar instruments, would be beneficial.
• You will need excellent attention to detail, good manual dexterity and the patience required to work with small, intricate components.
• The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider production team is essential.
• A recognised mechanical engineering qualification, apprenticeship, NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, HNC or HND would be advantageous, although candidates with strong relevant practical experience will also be considered.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience working within a cleanroom, controlled manufacturing environment or contamination-sensitive production facility would be particularly beneficial.
• Experience assembling vacuum equipment, pumps, valves, scientific instruments, aerospace components or other precision-engineered products would also be highly relevant.
• Knowledge of basic electrical wiring, electromechanical assembly, component testing and manufacturing quality documentation would be advantageous.
• Candidates from automotive, aerospace, electronics, specialist machinery or high-precision manufacturing backgrounds are encouraged to apply where they have relevant hands‑on assembly experience.
• Direct experience with ultra-high-vacuum technology is not essential, as product-specific training can be provided.

What We Offer

This is a permanent opportunity with an established precision engineering manufacturer offering a supportive working environment and the chance to develop specialist technical skills.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary dependent on experience, 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, private medical insurance, a company pension scheme and life insurance.

The position operates Monday to Friday, with the additional benefit of an early finish on Fridays.

You will have the opportunity to work with advanced manufacturing technology, develop your knowledge of specialist engineering products and build a long-term career within precision manufacturing.

• competitive salary dependent on experience, 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays
• private medical insurance
• company pension scheme
• life insurance
• early finish on Fridays

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