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Sheet Metal Worker

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Description

Job Title\: Sheet Metal Worker

Location\: Portsmouth Naval Base. Onsite

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements - please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role

Salary\: £37,421

Requirements\: Modern Apprenticeship / Trade Papers must be provided when submitting your application

Who we are\:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Job Description\:

As a Sheet Metal Worker, you will play a key role in developing and optimising CNC profiling processes across waterjet, plasma and laser cutting equipment. Combining traditional sheet metal and fabrication skills with modern manufacturing technologies, you will produce accurate profiles, material kits and technical information that support safe, efficient and high-quality production within a demanding marine environment.

Working from engineering drawings, specifications and CAD data, you will create and modify machine programmes, determine effective manufacturing methods, and support fabrication activities where required. Collaborating closely with production, planning and engineering teams, you'll help solve manufacturing challenges while maintaining high standards of safety, quality and continuous improvement.

Core duties\:

  • You will produce material kits and profiled components using waterjet, plasma and laser cutting equipment
  • Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to determine effective manufacturing methods and material requirements
  • You will conduct dimensional inspections and quality checks, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards
  • Reverse engineer existing components where required, developing accurate and practical manufacturing solutions
  • Support workshop fabrication activities, applying expertise flexibly to meet changing production demands

Essential Skills\:

  • NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification in Fabrication, Sheet Metal, Engineering, or a related discipline
  • Experience in sheet metal, fabrication, or engineering manufacturing environments, producing high-quality components
  • CNC machining and programming experience, including interpreting engineering drawings and creating machine programmes
  • Considerable problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop practical manufacturing solutions from technical information and reverse-engineered components

The Ship Fabrication Team\:

The Ship Fabrication Team plays a vital role in manufacturing, fitting and repairing steel and aluminium components for naval vessels. Working alongside welders, engineers and planners, the team delivers high-quality solutions in a fast-paced environment, with structured training, development opportunities and clear pathways into specialist, supervisory and leadership roles.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive\:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date\: 20th November 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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