STEM Drill Operator

Precision Engineering. Advanced Technology. Real Impact.

We are looking for a STEM Drill Operator to join our advanced manufacturing team, operating one of the most specialised and rare drilling technologies in precision engineering.

This role offers the opportunity to work with acid electrolytic STEM drilling technology
, producing long, deep, high‑precision holes in challenging materials for high‑integrity components used in the aerospace and industrial gas turbine sectors
.

If you enjoy working to exceptional accuracy, thrive in a quality‑driven environment, and want to develop expertise in an advanced machining process, this role is for you.

• Set up and operate STEM drilling machines to produce deep, precision holes in corrosion‑resistant alloys

• Drill complex profiles including:

  • Film cooling holes

  • Radial and trailing edge holes

  • Platform and tabulated holes

• Work with small diameters (down to 0.5mm) and extreme depth‑to‑diameter ratios

• Monitor and control the electrolytic drilling process to achieve:

  • Excellent surface finish

  • No recast layer

  • No thermal or mechanical stress to components

• Interpret engineering drawings and drilling specifications

• Perform in‑process inspection and quality checks

• Maintain clean, organised and safe working areas

• Support continuous improvement in quality, productivity and process control

• Work with a rare and highly specialised drilling technology

• No spark erosion, no thermal damage, no mechanical stress

• High material removal rates with minimal tool wear

• Opportunity to build niche skills highly valued in aerospace manufacturing

• Contribute directly to safety‑critical, high‑performance components

• Experience operating precision machining or drilling equipment

• Strong attention to detail and quality standards

• Ability to follow technical instructions and engineering drawings

• Commitment to safety and controlled working practices

• Good problem‑solving skills and process awareness

• Experience with
  STEM drilling, EDM, or electrochemical machining

• Background in aerospace or high‑integrity manufacturing

• Knowledge of working with exotic or corrosion‑resistant materials

• Experience with inspection, measurement, and quality documentation

• Methodical and precise approach to work

• Patient and focused when working to tight tolerances

• Willing to learn and develop specialist skills

• Team‑focused with a strong sense of accountability

• Proud of delivering right‑first‑time quality

• Work with cutting‑edge manufacturing technology

• Develop specialist skills in a niche process

• Stable, high‑quality manufacturing environment

• Strong focus on safety, quality and investment in people

• Be part of a team delivering components that truly matter