Welding Engineer -Contract
Location: Titchfield (moving to Daedalus site)
Contract Length: 12-18 months
Rate: Competitive
Start: Subject to internal approval - expected shortly
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Welding Engineer to provide specialist technical leadership during a critical period of compliance recovery and operational transition for our aerospace manufacturing client based in Titchfield.
Following a recent pre-audit, several gaps have been identified relating to NADCAP requirements, welding process control, documentation, and compliance. This role will drive the recovery plan, restore accreditation readiness, and embed sustainable improvements.
We have a need for an experienced contractor who can deliver rapid, high-level expertise while supporting the upskilling of the permanent team.
In addition, the Welding Engineer will play a key role in supporting the transition to the new Daedalus facility, ensuring all welding processes are validated and production-ready.
Key Responsibilities
NADCAP & Compliance Leadership
- Lead the recovery and ongoing sustainment of NADCAP Welding Accreditation.
- Own the closure of pre-audit findings and ensure systemic corrective actions are embedded.
- Strengthen and implement robust processes including:
- WPS/PQR creation and management
- Welder qualification records
- Welding equipment validation & calibration
- Consumable and environmental control
- Welding data sheet and substantiation report accuracy
- Conduct internal audits and readiness reviews.
- Act as the primary technical contact for external NADCAP audits.
Process Engineering & Technical Authority
- Provide technical ownership of TIG, Resistance, and/or Electron Beam (EB) welding processes.
- Develop, review, and optimise welding procedures in line with aerospace standards.
- Lead root cause analysis for weld defects (porosity, cracking, inclusions, distortion, etc.).
- Improve First-Time-Right metrics, reducing scrap, rework, and concessions.
- Define, implement, and monitor process control methodologies.
Facility Transition - Daedalus
- Support layout planning, equipment specification, and environmental requirements for the new welding facility.
- Validate welding capability after relocation.
- Ensure all processes are risk assessed, documented, and production-ready.
- Support industrialisation and production ramp‑up at the new site.
Continuous Improvement & Workforce Development
- Elevate shop-floor welding standards and operational discipline.
- Mentor and coach welders and junior engineers.
- Collaborate across Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations functions.
- Drive simplification and clarity in welding documentation and workflow.
Essential Requirements
- Qualification from TWI (The Welding Institute) or equivalent Welding Engineering certification.
- Degree or equivalent experience in Welding Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a similar discipline.
- Strong background in aerospace welding and special process control.
- Demonstrated experience with NADCAP welding audits (supporting or leading).
- Proven ability to close audit findings and implement long-term corrective actions.
- Hands-on knowledge of TIG, EB, or Resistance welding processes.
- Strong understanding of metallurgical principles, weld defects, and process optimisation.
- Experience working within a regulated aerospace or high-integrity environment.
Desirable
- IWE (International Welding Engineer) qualification.
- Experience supporting site moves, facility transitions, or production transfers.
- Background in high-reliability or safety-critical components.
- Exposure to automation or orbital welding technology.
Why This Role Is Critical
- Internal teams are currently being strengthened, and this role will help train and develop permanent staff.
- The site transition to Daedalus requires expert guidance to ensure future compliance and capability.
Role is inside of IR35, and can be engaged on a PAYE basis only.
You can accrue holiday, or have the holiday amount advanced in your hourly rate - your choice!
Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK freely adhering to ITAR restrictions.
