AIT Technicians (Assembly, Integration & Testing) | 15+ Professionals | Leiden area | Space Industry | Start: As soon as possible | Duration: Minimum 9 months (expected 9–12 months) | Project – Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands | Detachering + Freelance possible

We are looking for a team of 15+ technical professionals for Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands in the Leiden area. The project focuses on increasing production capacity for structural assemblies within the European launcher programme.

We are looking for professionals across three main profiles: AIT Technicians / Sheet Metal Specialists, Senior AIT Technicians / Shift Leaders, and KUKA Robot Operators. Candidates will contribute to the assembly, integration and production of high-precision aerospace structures in a demanding, quality-driven environment.

Relevant hands-on experience is essential. We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in aerospace, aviation maintenance, aircraft manufacturing or comparable high-tech production environments.

Company description

Airbus is the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe, providing products, services and solutions for the commercial aircraft, helicopter, defence and space sectors. Airbus Netherlands plays an important role in the European space industry, delivering advanced hardware for satellite and launcher programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Perform precision assembly of aluminium aerospace structures.

• Carry out drilling, reaming, countersinking and riveting activities.

• Work with technical drawings, production instructions and specialised tooling.

• Operate and support automated robotic production cells where applicable.

• Perform quality inspections and ensure accurate technical documentation and traceability.

• Coordinate production activities, monitor progress and support colleagues where required.

• Maintain high standards of safety, quality and workmanship.

Profile of our ideal candidates

We are looking for practical, technically skilled professionals who can contribute to production from an early stage. The project includes three main profiles:

1. AIT Technicians / Sheet Metal Specialists

• Demonstrable experience in precision assembly, sheet metal work or structural manufacturing.

• Experience with drilling, reaming, countersinking and riveting.

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.

• Aviation, aircraft manufacturing or aerospace maintenance experience is strongly preferred.

2. Senior AIT Technicians / Shift Leaders

• Extensive practical experience in aerospace or high-tech manufacturing.

• Experience coordinating technicians and managing shop-floor production activities.

• Able to guide colleagues, monitor production progress and ensure quality and safety standards.

• Must remain hands-on and actively support assembly activities.

3. KUKA Robot Operators

• Demonstrable experience operating industrial KUKA robotic systems.

• Experience with automated drilling or riveting cells is a strong advantage.

• Able to manage robot settings, positioning, tooling changes and basic troubleshooting.

• Knowledge of industrial automation and machinery safety.

Quality inspection experience, including visual and dimensional inspections and quality documentation, is also relevant within the project team.

Requirements

• Relevant technical education (MBO level or equivalent practical experience).

• Proven, relevant hands-on technical experience. School-leavers without relevant practical experience are not suitable.

• Experience in aerospace, aviation, defence, high-end manufacturing or a comparable technical environment.

• Good understanding of technical drawings, work instructions and quality procedures.

• Good command of English, both spoken and written. Dutch is an advantage.

• Available for a project of at least 9 months.

• Willing to work fully on-site at the Airbus facility in the Leiden area.

• Willing to work the primary afternoon/evening shift (14:00–23:00, Monday to Friday), with flexibility to support day shifts when required.

• Able to successfully complete the required security screening (VOG or equivalent).

Candidates with a more senior technical background are welcome, provided they have the relevant practical skills and motivation to remain actively involved in production.

Project details

• Team size: Approximately 15+ professionals across the different roles.

• Start: As soon as possible, no later than December 2026.

• Duration: Minimum 9 months, with an expected duration of 9–12 months.

• Working hours: Primary afternoon/evening shift, 14:00–23:00, Monday to Friday.

• Location: Airbus Netherlands, Leiden / Oegstgeest.

• Shift flexibility: Willingness to support day shifts when operationally required.

What's in it for you?

• Opportunity to work on advanced aerospace and European launcher projects.

• Work within an international, high-tech environment at Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands.

• A challenging technical project with a minimum duration of 9 months.

• Collaboration with experienced engineers, technicians and production specialists.

• Opportunity to contribute directly to the expansion of Airbus' production capacity.

For questions: robert.vandenouwelant@headfirst.nl