Surface Finishing Operative - Anodising / Rumbling / Masking

Denham | £39,500 (inc. shift allowance) | Permanent | Double Days

A globally recognised aerospace manufacturer in Denham is hiring a Surface Finishing Operative to join its expanding finishing department. You'll already be competent in one of the following:

Anodising

Rumbling / Vibratory Finishing

Precision Masking
From there, you'll receive structured cross‑training across the other processes, helping you develop into a well‑rounded finisher over time. This role is ideal for someone from a manufacturing or engineering environment who enjoys working with small, detailed metallic components and wants long‑term progression.

What you'll be doing

You'll begin by working in your primary skill area, with additional training provided as you grow into the role. Tasks may include:

If you join with Anodising experience

Operating manual or automated anodising lines

Preparing components via jigging, masking, and plugging

Inspecting anodised surfaces to aerospace standards

Working with process chemicals to strict specifications
If you join with Rumbling experience

Operating vibratory finishing and barrel tumbling machinery

Preparing surfaces ahead of anodising or passivation

Masking critical features such as bores, slots, and edges

Deburring and surface finishing to tight tolerances
If you join with Masking experience

Applying tapes, plugs, and bungs to intricate components

Unmasking and performing basic visual checks

Working with small, detailed parts requiring excellent dexterity

Across all areas, you'll follow engineering drawings and meet high quality standards for safety‑critical aerospace components.

What you need

Manufacturing or engineering background (essential)

Competence in at least one of: anodising, rumbling, or precision masking

Strong dexterity and attention to detail

Understanding of H&S and COSHH regulations

Ability to read engineering drawings (training provided)

Ability to work double day shifts

GCSE grades D-G or equivalent

Experience with process chemicals or metal finishing techniques is beneficial, but not essential if you have a solid manufacturing foundation.

What's on offer

£35,500 base + 22.5% shift allowance on afternoons = c. £39,500

£3,000 signing bonus (paid in first year)

Double day shifts. Earlies: 06:00-14:00 Mon-Thu / 06:00-12:00 Fri. Afters: 13:45-22:00 Mon-Thu / 11:45-15:00 Fri

Strong benefits package

Overtime available

Genuine long‑term progression

Stable workload with more than a decade of secured contracts

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