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 | Secondment + Freelance possible

We are looking for a team of 15 or more 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 program.

We are looking for professionals in three main roles: 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, defense, and space sectors. Airbus Netherlands plays an important role in the European space industry, supplying advanced hardware for satellite and launch vehicle programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform precision assembly of aluminum aerospace structures.

• Perform drilling, reaming, countersinking, and riveting tasks.

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

• Operate and support automated robotic production cells as needed.

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

• Coordinate production activities, monitor progress, and support colleagues as needed.

• Maintain high standards of safety, quality, and workmanship.

Profile of Our Ideal Candidates

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

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.

• Experience in aviation, aircraft manufacturing, or aerospace maintenance 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 lead 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 significant advantage.

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

• Knowledge of industrial automation and machinery safety.

Experience with quality inspection—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 graduates without relevant practical experience are not suitable.

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

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

• Good command of English, both spoken and written. Knowledge of Dutch is a plus.

• Available for a project lasting at least 9 months.

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

• Willing to work the primary afternoon/evening shift (2:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., Monday through Friday), with flexibility to cover day shifts when needed.

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

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

Project Details

• Team size: Approximately 15 or more professionals in various roles.

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

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

• Working hours: Primarily afternoon/evening shift, 2:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Location: Airbus Netherlands, Leiden / Oegstgeest.

• Shift flexibility: Willingness to work day shifts when operationally necessary.

What's in it for you?

• Opportunity to work on advanced aerospace and European launch vehicle projects.

• Work in 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.

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

For questions: robert.vandenouwelant@headfirst.nl