Surface Mount Technology Team Operative – Cobalt Aerospace Manufacturing

Job Posted: 26 February 2026

• Contract Term: Permanent
• Location: Calbourne, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: £12.21 - £15.04 (experience dependent)
• Industries: Engineering Manufacturing Mechanical and Electrical

Surface Mount Technology Team Operative – Cobalt Aerospace Manufacturing

Location: Cobalt Aerospace Unit 21, Barry Way, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5GY.

Company: IFPL Group

Department: SMT

Salary: £12.21 - £15.04 (experience dependent)

Benefits: Flexible Working, Private Health Cover, Death in Service, CycleScheme & TechScheme, Discounted Gym Membership

IFPL are seeking a practical, hands-on SMT Team Operative to provide day-to-day support across our electronics manufacturing operations. This role is key to maintaining production efficiency, equipment performance, and product quality within our SMT production environment.

You will work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to ensure smooth operation of SMT lines, rapid fault resolution, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes.

This will be on a 4-day working week shift rota, 08:30 – 18:30

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up, operate, and run SMT equipment including screen printing, pick & place machines, and reflow ovens.
• Carry out machine changeovers, line setups, and product introductions (NPI support)
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and cleaning of SMT equipment
• Support process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives
• Work closely with quality teams to investigate defects and implement corrective actions
• Maintain accurate production, maintenance, and process documentation 

What you will bring:

• Experience in SMT manufacturing (Specific training will be given)
• Knowledge of SMT processes, materials, and equipment
• Ability to fault-find and troubleshoot electrical and process issues
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Good communication skills and a proactive, team-oriented approach
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn
• Promote and adhere to the Company values to inspire, innovate, design, respect and deliver.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience with pick & place machines (e.g. Fuji, Yamaha, ASM, Juki, Panasonic, Mycronic, Hanwha)
• IPC knowledge (IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/7721, IPC-J-STD-001)
• Soldering and rework skills
• Experience supporting NPI and process validation

Why IFPL?

• Private Health Cover: Protect your health with comprehensive private medical insurance.
• Discount Schemes: Enjoy discounts on a wide range of products and services, available to all our employees.
• Career Growth: As part of a rapidly expanding company, you will have the opportunity to advance your career in the electronics manufacturing industry.

At IFPL, we believe that our success is built on the strength of our people. If you’re ready to contribute to the future of inflight entertainment and work in a supportive, forward-thinking environment, apply today!

If you interested in this role, we encourage you to apply with your CV and a cover letter